How to Manage Pests

Pests in Gardens and Landscapes

Sunflower stem weevil—Cylindrocopturus adspersus

Sunflower stem weevils are pests of sunflowers. Adult beetles are dark brown with light spots and about 1/8-inch long. Larvae are pale maggots.

Damage

Larvae bore in stalks and overwinter in lower stalks and crowns. Foliage yellows and wilts. Plants fall over.

Solutions

Consider delaying planting; many beetles will emerge and die before laying eggs. Deeply incorporate or remove and dispose of debris. Consider planting other plants. Avoid broad-spectrum insecticides; parasites may help to control beetles.

For noncommercial purposes only, any Web site may link directly to this page. FOR ALL OTHER USES or more information, read Legal Notices. Unfortunately, we cannot provide individual solutions to specific pest problems. See How to manage pests, or in the U.S., contact your local Cooperative Extension office for assistance. /PMG/GARDEN/FLOWERS/INVERT/stemweevil.html revised: January 17, 2008. Contact webmaster.