Identifying and Treating Lawn Grubs: A Guide for Homeowners Post

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Maintaining a lush, green lawn is a source of pride for many homeowners. However, the presence of lawn grubs can quickly turn that pride into frustration. These voracious pests, also known as white grubs, can wreak havoc on your lawn by feeding on grassroots, causing brown patches and weakening the turf. In this guide, we'll discuss how to identify lawn grubs and the best methods for treating and preventing their damage.

Identifying Lawn Grubs

Lawn grubs are the larvae of various beetle species, including Japanese beetles, June bugs, and European chafers. Identifying these pests early is crucial for effective treatment. Here are some signs that your lawn may be infested with grubs:

• Brown Patches: Irregular brown patches that appear in your lawn, particularly during the late summer or early fall, can indicate grub damage. These patches often feel spongy or loose underfoot as the grubs feed on grassroots, depriving the turf of essential nutrients and moisture.
• Wilting Grass: Areas of grass that suddenly wilt and die, despite adequate watering, may be a result of grub feeding. As the grubs consume grassroots, the affected turf becomes unable to absorb water and nutrients, leading to wilting and eventual death.
• Increased Wildlife Activity: Skunks, raccoons, and birds are natural predators of lawn grubs. If you notice increased digging or foraging activity in your lawn, it may be a sign of a grub infestation as these animals seek out the grubs as a food source.
• Visible Grubs: Occasionally, you may unearth lawn grubs while performing routine lawn maintenance, such as mowing or aerating. These creamy-white, C-shaped larvae typically range in size from a few millimetres to over an inch long, depending on the species.

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Treating and Preventing Lawn Grubs

Once you've identified a grub infestation in your lawn, prompt treatment is essential to prevent further damage. Here are some effective methods for treating lawn grubs:

• Chemical Control: Insecticides specifically formulated to target lawn grubs can effectively reduce their populations and prevent future damage. We recommend Lawn Solutions Grub Guard Ultimate for your lawn grub protection. The long residual performance of Lawn Solutions Grub Guard Ultimate Turf Insecticide will provide up to 6 months of protection at the higher application rates.

Apply insecticide treatments typically in late spring or early summer when the grubs are actively feeding near the soil surface.

• Biological Control: Beneficial nematodes, microscopic organisms that prey on lawn grubs, can be an eco-friendly alternative to chemical insecticides. Apply nematodes to the affected areas of your lawn in late summer or early fall when the grubs are most susceptible.
• Cultural Practices: Maintaining a healthy lawn through proper cultural practices, such as regular mowing, adequate watering, and fertilization, can help reduce the risk of grub infestations. Healthy turf is better equipped to withstand and recover from grub damage.

Identifying and treating lawn grubs promptly is essential for maintaining a healthy and vibrant lawn. By recognising the signs of a grub infestation early and employing appropriate treatment methods, you can minimize damage and enjoy a lush, green lawn year-round.

For more information on pest and disease control for your lawn, visit our Pest & Disease webpage for expert advice and solutions tailored to your needs.