Lawn grubs are the larval stage of various beetles. These small, white pests live in the soil and feed on the roots of grass and plants.
While grubs have a natural role in the ecosystem, too many can lead to severe lawn damage. A healthy yard can tolerate a few grubs, but an infestation requires action. This guide will explain how to recognize, treat, and prevent grubs to keep your lawn healthy.
Key Takeaways
- Lawn grubs are the larvae of beetles and feed on grass roots.
- Signs of grub damage include thinning grass, dead patches, and increased animal digging.
- Preventative measures are most effective in mid-spring to early summer.
- Treatment options include both chemical and natural methods.
- Severe infestations may require professional lawn care services.
What Are Grubs?
Lawn grubs are the larvae of scarab beetles, such as Japanese beetle grubs, European chafers, and June bugs. These pests are common throughout North America. They live in the soil, feeding on grass roots and other organic material.
Grub infestations attract predators like crows, skunks, moles, and raccoons, which dig up lawns in search of food. Even after grubs are eliminated, these animals may return to forage in the same areas.
Common Beetle Species That Produce Lawn Grubs
- Japanese beetles: Green with copper-brown wings; common lawn pests.
- Sugarcane beetles: Black, dome-shaped; primarily attack crops.
- European chafers: Tan or light brown beetles, about ½ inch long.
- Masked chafers: Golden brown with darker heads and fine hairs underneath.
- May/June beetles (June bugs): Reddish-brown to black, ½ to 1 inch long.
- Asiatic garden beetles: Chestnut brown with an iridescent sheen.
- Oriental beetles: Light brown to black, resembling Japanese beetles.
What Do Grubs Look Like?
Grubs have creamy-white to grayish bodies and brown heads. They have six distinct legs and are often curled in a “C” shape when disturbed. Depending on the species, grubs range in size from ¾ inch to 2 inches.
Signs of Grubs in Your Lawn:
Here are common indicators of grub damage:
- Beetles flying low over the lawn.
- Patches of thinning or dead grass.
- Grass that easily pulls up at the roots.
- A bouncy or spongy feeling when walking on the lawn.
- Drought-like symptoms despite adequate watering.
- Increased animal digging (skunks, raccoons, moles, crows).
Testing for Grubs
To confirm a grub problem:
- Pull or cut back a section of damaged grass.
- Inspect the soil 2-3 inches deep for grubs.
- If you find more than 5-6 grubs per square foot, treatment is necessary.
The Life Cycle of Lawn Grubs
The life cycle of lawn grubs follows this pattern:
- Eggs: Beetles lay eggs in the soil during summer (June to August).
- Larvae: The eggs hatch in late summer to early fall (September to November), and the larvae begin feeding on grass roots.
- Winter Dormancy: Grubs burrow deeper into the soil during winter.
- Spring Activity: In spring (March to May), the grubs resurface to feed before pupating.
- Adult Beetles: The larvae pupate and develop into adult beetles, restarting the cycle.
Getting Rid of Lawn Grubs
The best way to handle lawn grubs is through preventative maintenance before they become a problem. Prevention is most effective from mid-April to mid-June, before beetles lay their eggs.
Preventative Methods:
- Lawn Aeration: Aerating the soil disrupts grub habitats and promotes healthy root growth.
- Dethatching: Removing thatch reduces conditions that favor grub populations.
- Watering Strategies: Reduce watering during beetle egg-laying season to deny moisture to the eggs.
- Proper Mowing: Mow at a higher height to promote stronger grass roots.
- Grub-Resistant Grass Species: Consider planting tall fescue, which is more resistant to grubs than Kentucky bluegrass.
- Preventive Insecticides: Apply insecticides containing imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, or clothianidin at the right time for maximum effectiveness.
Curative Methods:
If you have an active grub infestation, curative treatments are necessary:
- Chemical Insecticides: Products containing carbaryl or trichlorfon can quickly kill grubs. Follow all label instructions for safe and effective application.
- Milky Spore: This natural treatment targets Japanese beetle larvae and can provide long-term control.
- Neem Oil: Neem oil is safe for pollinators and can help control grubs without harming beneficial insects.
- Beneficial Nematodes: These microscopic organisms attack and kill grubs in the soil. Ensure proper application for the best results.
- Encouraging Natural Predators: Ground beetles and parasitic wasps can help control grub populations naturally.
When to Call a Lawn Care Professional
Consider hiring a professional lawn care service if:
- You find more than six grubs per square foot.
- The lawn continues to deteriorate despite treatment efforts.
- Animals are aggressively digging up your yard.
- You need fast intervention or chemical treatments handled safely.
Professional services can provide targeted treatments and chemical safety expertise to restore and protect your lawn.
Call Lawn Sense for Lawn Pest Removal in Dallas, TX
If you’re dealing with lawn grubs in Dallas, TX, and surrounding areas, Lawn Sense can help. We specialize in lawn pest control, including grub infestations. Our expert team protects and restores your lawn with proven treatments and effective care. Lawn Sense means no nonsense when it comes to lawn pests.
FAQs – Lawn Grubs
Here are common questions about lawn grubs:
How do I know if my lawn has grubs?
Signs include thinning or dead grass, grass that pulls up easily, and increased digging by animals.
When is the best time to treat lawn grubs?
The best time for preventative treatment is mid-April to mid-June. For active infestations, treat as soon as you notice the damage.
Are natural treatments effective against grubs?
Yes, natural treatments like neem oil, milky spore, and beneficial nematodes can be effective if properly applied.
Do grubs only damage grass?
Grubs primarily feed on grass roots, but they can also damage garden plants and crops if present in high numbers.
Can I prevent lawn grubs?
Yes, proper lawn care, aeration, and preventive insecticides can help reduce the risk of a grub infestation and other pests.
Final Thoughts
Early detection and treatment of lawn grubs can prevent extensive damage and ensure the long-term health of your lawn. Use proper maintenance techniques to reduce future infestations, and consider professional services for severe grub problems. A healthy lawn starts with proactive care and timely intervention.