Q: I have been collecting compost material in my kitchen then burying it directly in my garden for several years. I didn’t plant a garden this year but still bury fruits and vegetables. This year I discovered what I think are grubs. How can I get rid of them?
A: The grubs are in your soil because you made it so nice for them. These beetles do best in soil rich in organic matter because they feed on it and so the adult beetles will lay eggs where they find good soil or directly into compost piles. You can get rid of them if your garden is small and you don’t mind sifting through the dirt.
Peter L. Warren is the Forest Health Program Coordinator for the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management. Questions, photos and videos may be emailed to tucsongardensage@gmail.com
