Gault’s Place

“This large weevil lays approximately 100 eggs at the base of older/larger spotted and diffuse knapweed plants. The developing larvae mine the central taproot, damaging the weed’s vascular tissue and cause root-gall formation. This root-boring beetle is available on a limited basis this year so get your order in early! How do I get started? Your first goal in starting any biological control program is to identify the areas in which you intend to release your insects. You may already have specific areas in mind where you want to put out your first releases. Perhaps they are areas which are environmentally sensitive and preclude the use of herbicides. They may be areas which are inaccessible for spraying. Or, you may just be fed up with spraying and want to begin biological control in earnest throughout your entire infestation. How many insects are enough for my infestation? One approach is to inundate your infestation with as many releases as is affordable during the first couple years”