Grubs—the larvae of Japanese beetles, oriental beetles, or chafers—are a common lawn care problem. They eat the roots of grass, eventually causing the grass to turn brown and die. It’s important to get rid of grubs before the infestation becomes so bad that they deplete the root system to the point where the turf will […]
Get rid of grubs, the larvae of Japanese beetles, oriental beetles, or chafers, before they damage or destroy the root system of your lawn.
Grubs—the larvae of Japanese beetles, oriental beetles, or chafers—are a common lawn care problem. They eat the roots of grass, eventually causing the grass to turn brown and die. It’s important to get rid of grubs before the infestation becomes so bad that they deplete the root system to the point where the turf will peel up when raked.
An early warning sign of their presence, even before your lawn turns brown, are sightings of grub-eating animals such as moles, crows, or skunks. To be sure, dig up some square-foot patches of your lawn and count how many grubs you can find in each patch. More than nine grubs indicates a problem. Get rid of grubs using these methods to send those creepy crawlies on their way. lawncare
How to Get Rid of Grubs
Nematodes Get Rid of Grubs:
Invite what are known as beneficial nematodes to dine on the grubs that are destroying your lawn. You can buy the microscopic worms that feed on grubs from most garden centers and mail-order outlets. The nematodes that are available from garden centers aren’t very aggressive, but they’re good to use as a preventive measure. The more aggressive seek-and-destroy type of nematodes are available by mail (their life span is only 3 to 4 days, so garden centers don’t stock them.) During their short but productive lives, they’ll do a good job of cleaning out a grub hot spot.
“Sandals of Death” Kill Grubs
Also available at some garden centers are the “sandals of death,” aerating sandals with spikes attached to the soles. Those spikes, which break up compacted soil, also stab and kill grubs.
Get Rid of Grubs with a Grub-Control Agent:
Adopt a lawn-care program that includes a biological grub-control agent available at garden centers. When you get rid of the grubs, you’ll also deter lawn-damaging pests like skunks, moles, and insects.
Did you get rid of the grubs but still have a mole problem? If so, try these methods to get rid of moles.