21 Dec 2012

South American lawn weevil strikes in far north

7:44 am on 21 December 2012

The lawn-devouring South American turf weevil has appeared in the Far North of the country for the first time since 1999.

Northland based entomologist Jenny Dymock says the recent weather has been ideal for an outbreak and lawns are the weevil's prime target.

Dr Dymock says the insect lays its eggs at the bottom of kikuyu grass and the grubs feed at the base.

Their feeding results in dead patches of grass which can be pulled out in tufts.

Dr Dymock says the weevil can be controlled with general garden purpose insecticides.