The buzz has been increasing about a certain seasonal visitor that appears every summer: the June bug. When you’re trying to enjoy a nice evening out on the patio, the last thing you want is a June bug pestering you. In Broken Arrow OK, our June bug season tends to kick off as early as late May, with the peak usually hitting us right in the heart of June. For 2024, and climate changes it will likely bring, it’s always good to stay prepared for these pests in late spring and summer seasons.
However, these little flyers are more than just a seasonal nuisance, they play a significant role in our local ecosystem. While they might seem like a small part of our vast ecosystem, these little critters can tell us a lot about the health of our environment and, yes, can sometimes become a bit of a nuisance.
As we roll into the 2024 June bug season here in Oklahoma, just remember, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener, a homeowner, or just someone who enjoys the great outdoors, Arrow Exterminators, Inc. is here to help.
June Bug Season
June bug season in Broken Arrow OK typically kicks off in late May and extends through early July. During this period, female June bugs will bury their eggs just below the surface of the soil in lawns or around vegetation. After a few weeks, the eggs hatch into grubs, which live underground and feed on the roots of plants, sometimes causing damage to gardens and lawns. Their larvae, known as grubs, help aerate the soil and break down decomposing matter, making Broken Arrow OK soil richer and better for planting.
These beetles are attracted to light, so you’re likely to see them buzzing around your porch lights or windows during the evening. The warm nights of Broken Arrow OK’s summers provide the perfect conditions for June bugs to thrive and reproduce.
Why Are They Called June Bugs?
The name has stuck due to the noticeable increase in their presence during the month of June. But the name can be a tad misleading because these rascally beetles don’t strictly stick to the June month. Sometimes referred to as May bugs, they appear in Broken Arrow OK as early as May and can continue in July.
Are June Bugs Dangerous?
In terms of personal safety, June bugs do not pose a danger to humans or pets. And they don’t bite or sting. However, their larval stage can be detrimental to your garden or lawn. The grubs feed on the roots of grass and other plants, which can cause brown patches on lawns and weaken the overall health of your vegetation.
How Do I Keep June Bugs Away?
Prevention is key when it comes to June bugs. You can discourage adult beetles from laying eggs in your yard by maintaining a healthy, well-aerated lawn and minimizing outdoor lighting during peak season. Since they’re attracted to light, consider turning off porch lights when they’re not needed and using yellow bulbs, which are less attractive to them.
So, what can we do to brace ourselves for the 2024 season? Here are a few friendly tips:
- Limit outdoor lighting. Consider using yellow or warm LED bulbs outside, they’re less attractive to June bugs.
- Maintain your lawn. Keeping your grass at a healthy length discourages female June bugs from laying eggs in your soil. Fewer grubs now mean fewer June bugs next season.
- Bring in professional pest control. Experts can also keep June bugs away with strategic prevention methods and a tailored plan for your home.
What Can You Do to Get Rid of June Bugs?
If you’re dealing with a severe infestation or need advice on preventative measures, our team at Arrow Exterminators, Inc. is here to help. We specialize in eco-friendly pest control solutions that safeguard your home and garden while protecting our beautiful Broken Arrow OK environment.
Should you need assistance with June bugs or any other pest control concerns, call us today. Here’s to a beautiful, bug-manageable summer!
