GRUB TREATMENT & PREVENTION
Grubs can cause serious damage to lawns by feeding on grassroots. Left untreated, a grub infestation can lead to brown patches, weakened turf, and increased susceptibility to other lawn problems. This guide will help you determine if you have grubs, when to apply treatment, and how to care for your lawn after treatment.
How to Identify a Grub Problem
If you suspect grub activity, look for these signs:
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Brown, dead patches that peel away easily like a carpet.
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Increased animal activity (such as birds, raccoons, or skunks) digging up your lawn.
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Soft, spongy ground when you walk across your lawn.
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Visible grubs: Dig up a small section of sod (about a square foot) and check for white, C-shaped larvae. Finding more than 10 grubs in a square foot is a sign of infestation.
When to Apply Grub Treatment
Timing is critical for effective grub control:
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Preventative Treatment: Apply in late spring to early summer (May – July) to target newly hatched grubs before they start feeding.
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Curative Treatment: Apply in late summer to early fall (August – October) when active grubs are feeding. This is ideal if damage is already visible.
Aftercare: Ensuring a Healthy Lawn Post-Treatment
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Watering: Water the treated area thoroughly to help insecticides reach the root zone where grubs live.
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Overseeding: If grub damage has left bare patches, reseed those areas in early fall to restore turf density.
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Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer to promote root growth and lawn recovery.
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Monitor Regularly: Check for signs of new grub activity in the following seasons and reapply treatment if necessary.
By following these steps, you can prevent and control grub infestations, ensuring a strong, healthy lawn year-round.