Root Weevil  

Root weevils (small flightless black beetles) and their larvae pose a significant threat to plant health. While adult damage is visible, the larvae, residing underground, feed on small roots crucial for water and nutrient absorption which can’t easily be seen. This repeated gnawing can stress plants and lead to decline or death. Identifying adult feeding involves distinctive notches on leaves, indicating the presence of weevils. Controlling them is challenging, as many softer insecticides are ineffective, and care must be taken with broad-spectrum options. Strategies include pyrethroid sprays for adults, parasitic nematodes for larvae (with limited success), and sticky coatings on trunks. Established plants can likely endure the damage, but young trees may suffer, particularly from root damage, resulting in a cycle of drought stress and compromised growth. If you think root weevils are at play get one of our Albuquerque arborists out today!