Fixit: Beetles in house are a harmless nuisance

Q Nearly every year about this time, we start finding little black beetles throughout the house. They are about 1/4-inch long with a small head that has a snout sticking out. We have no known entry points for them, such as torn or missing screens, and we keep our windows continuously closed during the air-conditioning season. Although they appear to be harmless, what are these insects? How do they get in?

A The insect you are describing is a strawberry root weevil. They are dark brown or black and bulb-shaped with a short snout. The larvae are associated with the roots of a variety of plants, such as arborvitae.

Although your house may look insect-proof to you, weevils can crawl through tiny cracks and spaces. Wherever you find them indoors, they walked to get there; they don't fly.

They are harmless, although they can be a nuisance. When you see them indoors, just use a paper towel or vacuum to remove them.

Strawberry root weevils are active from late June through August and then will go away on their own.

Jeff Hahn, extension entomologist, University of Minnesota Extension

Mulch confusion Q There are so many types and kinds of mulches. How do I know which is best for the garden or landscape?

Generally, mulch is used in summer to moderate soil temperatures, retain moisture and reduce weeds and diseases. Summer mulches are applied to annual and perennial beds and woody plants. For annuals, a fast-decomposing organic mulch of some kind works well: compost, leaves, pine needles, straw, grass clippings (not too thick), even newspaper. For perennials and woody plants, people typically choose something more permanent and attractive: wood chips or bark, for example. These mulches come in different colors and in materials with different rates of decomposition. Some are more prone to being tossed by the wind. Some lose their color more quickly. And some cost more than others.

Some good sites that discuss these characteristics:

• www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/files/gardennotes/216-Mulch.html

• www.canr.msu.edu/genesee/hort/mulches.htm

If cost is a concern, check with your local park board. In Minneapolis, there are several sites with piles of wood chips free for the taking.

Winter mulches have a different function. They are used to moderate temperatures and protect plants. Apply a winter mulch to perennials and woody plants, especially newly planted plants. Winter mulches are put down when the ground freezes (late November) and removed in late March. Use anything handy that can protect the plant and be removed easily. Leaves work great, and can even be used bagged. Just toss the bag right on top of the plant that you wish to mulch.

University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener program