Grubs: Detection and Mangement

From green to…grubby…in a matter of weeks! 😓

Grubs are actually the larvae of Japanese beetles (or other beetle species), which are an *extremely* invasive and destructive species of pest. They can demolish plants in a matter of days, leaving nothing but the skeletons of leaves. 🪲

During the grub stage, they eat anything in their path, including turfgrass roots – a delicacy to them! This ends up with the grass dying, resulting in dry brown patches.

If you suspect you have grubs or would like us to investigate, please reach out! With regular check-ins on clients’ yards, we can help stop the cycle of these lawn, plant, and garden destroyers.

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How Grubs Affect Your Yard

Root Damage – Grubs feed on grassroots, causing patches of dead or dying grass that easily lift from the soil.
Brown Spots & Thinning Grass – Infestations lead to uneven, patchy lawns that look unhealthy.
Increased Animal Activity – Birds, skunks, and raccoons dig up grub-infested areas, making damage even worse.

How You Can Detect Grubs

- Pull up a section of grass; if it peels back easily and reveals white, C-shaped larvae, you may have a problem.
- Excessive lawn damage in late summer or early fall can indicate grub activity.
- If you see more than 10 grubs per square foot, treatment may be necessary.

Grub Prevention & Control

Encourage Healthy Soil – Aerate and maintain strong grassroots to make your lawn more resilient.
Use Beneficial Nematodes – These microscopic organisms naturally target and kill grubs.
Water Wisely – Overwatering can make soil more attractive to egg-laying beetles.
Organic or Chemical Control – Products like milky spore or targeted grub control treatments can help manage populations.

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