Root Weevils: Damage and Control

These small, flightless, black or gray pests feed all season, chewing notches in leaf edges of azaleas, rhododendrons, roses, viburnum, and others. In late summer, they lay eggs on soil or leaf folds. Legless larvae burrow into soil and eat roots.

Control Options

Floating row covers may keep adults off plants. Parasitic nematodes effectively control larvae. For chemical control of adults, use acephate.