Effective Ways to Control June Bugs with Diatomaceous Earth

Andy Hemmer
Mar 27
4 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

June bugs or June beetles are often unwelcome summer visitors and are always welcome to leave in the early fall. White grubs are the immature form of June bugs and are characterized by their C-shaped, cream-colored bodies, brown heads, and three pairs of legs. They can cause significant damage to gardens and lawns. Using natural, chemical-free solutions such as diatomaceous earth can help control these pests. It does this without harming the environment. This article explains what diatomaceous earth (DE) is, explores the biology and habits of June bugs, and provides practical advice on using this natural remedy effectively in your home and garden.

What is Diatomaceous Earth?

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a naturally occurring, eco-friendly sedimentary rock. It is composed of fossilized remains of diatoms. These are microscopic algae with silica-based shells. DE appears as a fine white powder and is highly absorbent.

Due to its abrasive qualities, DE is widely used as a natural insecticide for pest control. It is effective in getting rid of June bugs. It works by damaging the exoskeleton of insects, causing dehydration and eventual death (National Pesticide Information Center, 2021).

Understanding June Bugs

June bugs, scientifically known as Phyllophaga spp., emerge in late spring and early summer, which is why they are named as such. These insects are nocturnal. They are typically brown or black with shiny, hard shells.

They are attracted to light and warmth. June bugs eat nutrient-rich foliage. Their larvae, commonly called white grubs, feed underground on plant roots. A female adult June bug will lay eggs in May and June and produce between 50 and 200 eggs at a time.

What Attracts June Bugs?

June bugs are mainly attracted to various factors, including:

Light: They swarm to bright lights, such as backyard or porch lights, especially at night.
Healthy Lawns: They favor moist, lush lawns, particularly those that are well-fertilized or rich in organic matter.
Leafy Plants: They are attracted to a variety of plants, including fruits, vegetables, and flowers in gardens.

Bugs and Predators Attracted to June Bugs

The presence of June bugs attracts additional pests and predators, such as:

Birds: Crows, robins, and grackles feed on adult beetles and larvae.
Mammals: Skunks, raccoons, and moles dig in lawns searching for larvae.
Natural Predators: Parasitic wasps and flies help control beetle populations. These predators naturally balance ecosystems (Clemson Cooperative Extension, 2019). These natural predators at the very least, help to deter June bugs.

Damage Caused by June Bugs

June bugs and their larvae can cause considerable harm to your garden. Here’s how:

Adult Beetles: They feed on leaves, fruits, and flowers, leading to both cosmetic and structural plant damage.
Larvae (Grubs): More destructive than adults, grubs feed on grass roots, leading to dead patches and weak lawns.
Indirect Damage: As mentioned earlier, predators seeking grubs can exacerbate lawn damage. Understanding these interactions is crucial for effective pest management (Penn State Extension, 2018).

How to Apply Diatomaceous Earth to Control June Bugs

Effectively using diatomaceous earth involves these key steps:

Choose the Right DE: Make sure you select diatomaceous earth that is safe for pets and humans. Avoid pool or filter grade DE as it can be toxic.
Identify Problem Areas: Focus your application on spots showing signs of June bug activity, especially around affected plants and lawns.
Apply Dry DE: Lightly sprinkle DE around plants, garden beds, and lawns, especially near plant bases.
Apply Wet DE: Mix 1/4 cup of DE with 1 gallon of water in a garden sprayer. Apply it until it runs off the plants. Once dry, it will leave a layer of diatomaceous earth.
Reapply After Rain: Since DE loses effectiveness when wet, you need to reapply after rain or heavy dew.
Use Protective Gear: While DE is generally safe, it can irritate lungs and eyes. Thus, it's wise to wear a mask and gloves during application (Penn State University Extension, 2017).

Alternative Chemical-Free Solutions

Apart from DE, consider these effective, natural methods to repel or control June bugs to avoid chemicals.:

Beneficial Nematodes: These microscopic organisms attack and eliminate June bug larvae located underground. You can find beneficial nematodes through Arbico Organics.
Traps: Setting light traps at night attracts adult beetles. Garrety Home Pros suggests a simple method: mix half a cup of molasses with half a cup of water in a funnel container. The sweet scent lures them, and they drown in the mixture.
Manual Removal: Regularly inspect your plants to manually remove beetles. Wear gloves, pick them off, and drop them in a jar of soapy water.
Biological Control: Encourage birds and beneficial insects to manage beetle populations naturally. Set up feeders in your yard to attract a larger bird presence.
Milky Spore: Apply Milky Spore to your lawn to help control and kill June bug grubs.

Conclusion

Diatomaceous earth offers an effective, environmentally friendly solution for managing June bug infestations. When combined with other chemical-free methods, your garden and lawn can remain healthy and vibrant throughout the summer. By understanding the habits of June bugs and managing their populations proactively, you can protect your outdoor spaces sustainably.

Using DE along with these natural strategies will create an enjoyable space that thrives without harmful chemicals. Enjoy a pest-free summer!