Most species of the Cucumber Beetle overwinter as adults. When warmer temperatures arrive this spring, they lay eggs for the summer s offspring. The larvae of the Cucumber Beetle are also known as the Corn Rootworm and no less than six species are found throughout the North American continent. If you had pest beetle problems last year, you can minimize their presence this year by applying beneficial nematodes to your garden and roses' watering well as soon as the soil temperatures warm. Sold by many nurseries, home improvement centers, insectaries and mailorder firms, these products come under a variety of brand names.
Some products contain a blend of both micro-worms.
These micro-worms are harmless to humans, our pets and our roses. By the way, if you continue to use diazinon or chlorpyrifos lawn insecticides, you will kill these beneficial critters along with your pest grubs. This practice allows the rose to send nutrients to the buds that remain. The result is a more fashionable, larger rose - one more suitable for display. Shortly after, secondary buds are formed around the terminal bud.