Winter’s almost over and the warmer months are coming. As much as it’s pleasant for you, the same can not be said for your lawn. You see, warm weather is the peak time for worm grub invasions and that’s never a thing to celebrate. In this article we will discuss everything you need to know about lawn grubs and how you can protect your turf before they cause too much damage.
What Are Grub Worms?
Grub worms or garden grubs are the larvae of various beetles, including Japanese beetles, European chafers, and May/June beetles. Grubs feed on plant roots and can cause extensive damage to lawns, gardens, and crops. A grub infestation can be difficult to control and may require multiple treatment methods, costing you hours and money.
What Are the Types of Grub Worms?
There are several types of grub worms that can wreak havoc on your lawn. The most common type is the European chafer, which is a small, brown beetle. These beetles lay their eggs in the soil in late summer, and the larvae hatch in early spring. The larvae then feed on the roots of grasses for several weeks before pupating into adults. Adult beetles emerge from the ground in late May or early June and mate. The female then lays her eggs in the soil, and the cycle begins anew.
Other common types of grub worms include Japanese beetle grubs, Oriental beetle grubs, and Asiatic garden beetles. Japanese beetle grubs are slightly larger than European chafer grubs and are light brown in color with a dark brown head. Oriental beetle grubs are also slightly larger than European chafer grubs and are white or cream-colored with a dark brown head. Asiatic garden beetles are the largest of the common grub worm pests, and their larvae can be up to 1 inch long. They are reddish-brown in color with a light brown head.
Garden grub identification is important because not all grubs are hatched at the same time. Some are more common in certain seasons. Knowing the exact type of grub gives you a better idea on how to better manage them and control damage.
Grub worms can cause extensive damage to your lawn if left unchecked. They feed on the roots of grasses, which can kill the grass and leave large, brown patches in your lawn. In addition, grub worms make it easier for other pests, such as skunks and raccoons, to dig up your lawn in search of a meal.
How Do I Know if I Have a Grub Worm Infestation?
To spot signs of grubs on lawn, look for the following:
- Brown patches in your lawn or garden – Grubs feed on the roots of grass, so they can quickly kill patches of turf. If you see brown patches in your lawn or garden, it’s a sign that grubs may be present.
- Damaged plants – Grubs will also eat the roots of other plants, causing them to wilt and die. If you see damaged plants in your garden, you may want to consider an infestation.
- Animals digging in your lawn or garden – Animals like rodents and birds are attracted to grubs, so if you see them digging in your lawn or garden, there’s a good chance that they’re looking for a quick snack under the soil and at the base of your lawn.
Why Do I Have an Infestation?
There are many potential causes of grub worm infestation. One common cause is over- watering or excessive moisture in the soil. This creates an ideal environment for grubs to thrive, as they are attracted to damp conditions. Another common cause of grub worm infestation is the use of chemical pesticides and herbicides. These chemicals can kill beneficial insects that help keep grub populations in check, allowing grubs to proliferate unchecked. Finally, compacted soil can also create conducive conditions for grub growth, as it limits the ability of lawn grub killers like predators to reach and consume them.
How Much Damage Can I Expect With an Infestation?
As any gardener or farmer knows, grubs can cause serious damage to lawns and crops. The damage can be devastating, and in some cases, irreversible. Left unchecked, grubs will devour the roots of plants, causing them to wilt and die. In severe infestations, grubs can destroy an entire field or garden. This can be prevented by regularly inspecting your garden or lawn. At the first sign of an infestation, it’s necessary for you to act right away.
What Are the Best Methods for Controlling Grub Worms?
There are a number of lawn grub treatment methods that can be used for controlling grub worm infestations. These include cultural controls, such as mowing your lawn regularly and removing potential breeding sites, as well as chemical controls, such as insecticides. If you suspect you have a grub worm infestation, here is a step-by-step guide you can use to stay on top of things:
- Inspect your lawn for signs of grub worms. Look for brown patches of grass that are dying or dead. Grub worms will also leave behind small mounds of dirt where they have been burrowing.
- Water your lawn deeply and evenly. This will help to bring the grub worms closer to the surface where they can be treated.
- Apply a pesticide specifically designed to kill grub worms. Be sure to follow the directions on the label carefully.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 as necessary. Once the grub worms are gone, your lawn should recover quickly.
Hire Experts to Get Rid of Your Lawn Grub Worms
Knowing how to get rid of lawn grubs doesn’t mean you will be able to do it on your own. In fact, most homeowners have little to no experience in spotting an infestation. It takes a trained eye to spot these signs of grub worm invasions. Usually, people consider dry patches or dead plants a normal occurrence.
Here at Green Oasis Lawn and Reticulation, we have experts who can help you get rid of your uninvited guests and make sure they never return. We also offer other gardening services in Perth, so if your lawn has been damaged beyond repair, we’ll help you bring it back to its original condition.
