Every homeowner desires a healthy lawn but unfortunately the presence of lawn grubs can quickly turn that dream into a nightmare. Grubs, the larvae of beetles, can quickly ruin your lawn by feeding on grassroots, leading to brown patches and weakened turf. Animals like skunks, raccoons and moles may tear up sections of your lawn as they dig in search of grubs causing further damage. If you’ve noticed signs of grub damage we’ve complied some useful information to help you fix your lawn.
Identifying Grub Damage
Early detection is crucial in addressing grub damage. Signs of grubs include brown patches that easily detach like a loose carpet, increased bird activity as they feed on grubs, and wilting or yellowing grass despite adequate watering.
Assessment and Inspection
Begin by inspecting the affected areas. Lift the turf in these patches to check for the presence of grubs. If you find more than five grubs per square foot, it’s time to take action…
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Grub Damage:
- Remove Dead Grass: Begin by removing the dead or dying grass in the affected areas. Use a rake to gently lift and remove the damaged turf.
- Inspect Grub Density: Take note of the density of grubs in the soil. If the infestation is severe, consider using an insecticide to eliminate the grubs. Choose a product labelled for grub control and follow the instructions carefully.
- Treat the Area: Apply the chosen insecticide according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help eliminate the grubs and prevent further damage to your lawn.
- Over seed the Area: Once the grubs are removed and treatment is applied it’s time to over seed the affected areas with a high-quality grass seed. Choose a seed blend that is suitable for your region and matches the existing grass type.
- Fertilize and Water: Apply a balanced fertilizer to promote the growth of new grass. Water the area thoroughly to ensure the soil remains consistently moist during the germination period.
- Monitor and Treat: Keep a close eye on your lawn for signs of regrowth and monitor for any signs of recurring grub activity. If necessary, treat the area again with an insecticide following recommended guidelines.
- Practice Healthy Lawn Maintenance: Maintain a healthy lawn by adopting good practices such as proper watering, regular mowing, and aeration. A well-maintained lawn is more resilient to pests and diseases.
Preventive Measures
To prevent future grub damage, consider the following:
- Grub-resistant Grass Varieties: Choose grass varieties that are resistant to grubs.
- Beneficial Nematodes: Apply nematodes, beneficial microscopic organisms that target grubs, to your lawn.
- Good Lawn Care Habits: Maintain proper lawn care practices to keep your lawn healthy and resilient.
Fixing a lawn damaged by grubs requires a specific approach involving removal, treatment, and restoration. By taking immediate action and implementing preventive measures, you can reclaim the health and beauty of your lawn.
Download our practial, step by step, guide to treating grubs here:
