Grape Rootworm on Grapes
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Grape rootworm (Fidia viticida) is a ¼-inch long, light brown to dark brown beetle. Adults emerge in late May and early June and make narrow feeding marks in leaves. Eggs are laid in crevices on vines. Upon emergence, larvae drop to the ground and feed on roots; in 1 to 2 years, they emerge as adults. Larval damage to roots is much more important than the leaf feeding by adults.
Adult grape rootworm.
(Photo: Ric Bessin, University of Kentucky)
Management:
- Manage adults to prevent egg-laying.
- Proper timing and selection of insecticides are important.
- Some grape berry moth insecticide sprays help manage grape rootworm.
- This pest rarely reaches damaging levels.
