Keeping a green, wholesome garden is something each homeowner takes pride in. But if you’ve noticed brown patches, wilting grass, or regions that seem to lift like free carpet, you might have an underground problem – grubs. These tiny, C-shaped larvae of beetles may be small; however, their urge for food is massive. In a quick span, they burrow beneath your lawn, feeding on grassroots and natural matter, causing thriving grass to weaken and die. What’s worse? If left untreated, these grubs mature into beetles, lay more eggs, and begin the cycle again.
While some insects – like earthworms that fertilize soil or ladybugs that eat pests – benefit your lawn, grubs fall into the “destructive” category. They don’t simply harm your grass; they can damage sections of your backyard. A heavy infestation of grubs (10 or more per square foot) can result in massive turf loss. And if that’s not enough, they also entice unwanted visitors like raccoons and skunks, which dig up your garden even further, even as they search for a grub-crammed snack.
But don’t worry – spotting the signs and symptoms early can save your garden earlier than it’s too past due. In this blog, we’ll explore the six signs of grub damage in your lawn, supporting you in picking out and dealing with the problem before it spirals out of control. By understanding these signs of grubs in your garden, you may take proactive steps to guard your grass and maintain its beauty throughout the year.
1. Moths or Beetles Flying Around Grass Level
One of the earliest signs of grubs in your lawn is the presence of moths or beetles flying close to the grass. These insects are often the adult forms of beetles that lay eggs in your lawn. When these eggs hatch, they become unfavorable grubs that feed in your grassroots.
If you observe a growth in a beetle or moth infestation, especially throughout the spring and early summer, it could imply that grubs are about to emerge as a problem. While seeing some beetles isn’t a definitive signal of an infestation, monitoring your lawn closely for different damage signs of grubs in your garden is a good idea.
2. Animals Digging Up Your Lawn
Have you observed raccoons, skunks, or birds spending more time in your backyard? These animals are natural predators of grubs and are regularly interested in lawns with an excessive grub population. They’ll dig up your grass to feast on the grubs, leaving in the back of unsightly holes and torn-up turf.
This accelerated animal activity is one of the most apparent grass grub signs. While looking at your garden damaged via traffic is frustrating, their presence clearly indicates that grubs are lurking under the floor.
3. Brown Patches in Your Lawn
One of the most unusual garden grub signs is the advent of brown patches. Grubs feed on grassroots, which weakens the grass and causes it to show brown and die. These patches are frequently irregular in form and can unfold quickly if the grub populace is left unchecked.
It’s important to note that brown patches can also be caused by drought or other issues. However, if you notice brown spots and other signs of grubs in your lawn, grubs are likely the culprit
4. Spongy or Loose Grass
If your lawn feels spongy or bouncy underfoot, it can signal grub harm. Grubs feed on the roots of your grass, weakening the connection between the grass and the soil. This can make your lawn feel soft and unstable when you walk on it.
This sponginess is a telltale grass grub signal and indicates that the grubs have been feeding your lawn for a while. If left untreated, this damage can lead to even more extreme problems, including turf detachment.
5. Turf Detachment
In excessive instances of grub infestation, you can notice that sections of your garden may be effortlessly rolled up like a carpet. This is because the grubs have absolutely severed the grass from its roots, leaving the turf detached from the soil.
Turf detachment is one of the most alarming lawn grub signs, showing that the infestation has reached an essential stage. At this level, repairing the damage can be costly and time-consuming, so it’s vital to deal with the hassle as quickly as possible.
6. Increased Weed Growth
Grubs weaken your grass by feeding on its roots, creating the right environment for weeds to thrive. If you are aware of a sudden influx of weeds in your lawn, it can be a sign of grub trouble.
Weeds are opportunistic plants that take advantage of weakened grass, so their presence is mostly a secondary sign of grubs in your lawn. By addressing the grub issue, you could repair your lawn’s health and prevent weeds from taking on.
How to Treat Grub Damage in Your Lawn
Now that you know the 6 signs of grub damage, it’s time to take action. Here are some effective ways to treat and prevent grub infestations:
1. Inspect Your Lawn
If you think grubs are damaging your garden, look into the soil by digging up a small section of grass. Look for white, C-fashioned larvae with brown heads. If you locate greater than five grubs according to the rectangular foot, it’s time to take action.
2. Use Nematodes
Nematodes are microscopic worms that kill grubs by infecting them with bacteria. They’re a green and powerful manner to manipulate grub populations.
3. Apply Grub Control Products
There are numerous grub-managed products to be had, which include insecticides containing Bifenthrin or Chlorantraniliprole. Always observe the manufacturer’s instructions and wear defensive gear when using those products.
4. Encourage Natural Predators
Birds, toads, and other natural predators can assist in keeping grub populations in the test. Create a welcoming environment for those animals by putting in place chook feeders and birdbaths.
5. Maintain a Healthy Lawn
A wholesome garden is much less prone to grub harm. Regularly aerate your soil, mow at the perfect top, and water deeply, however, on occasion, to promote sturdy root growth.
Preventing Future Grub Infestations
Prevention is key when it comes to grub damage. Here are a few suggestions to keep your garden grub-free:
- Aerate Your Lawn: Regular aeration improves soil health and makes it more difficult for grubs to thrive.
- Fertilize Properly: Use an exquisite fertilizer to keep your grass strong and resilient.
- Overseed Bare Patches: Overseeding enables filling in thin or broken areas, making it more challenging for grubs to take care of.
Conclusion
Grub damage can turn a lovely garden into a patchy, brown mess; however, knowing the six signs of grub damage, you may take action before it’s too late. From brown patches and spongy grass to increased animal interest, these garden grubs’ signs and symptoms are your first clue that something is inaccurate.
The best way to keep your lawn free of grubs is through proactive prevention. Studies show that a single square foot of turf can house 10 or more grubs before significant damage appears, so treating your lawn at the right time is crucial. If you’re dealing with an active grub problem, applying the right treatments can prevent their unfolding fast. If you want long-term protection, a professional grub control plan can help keep your lawn healthy and strong season after season.
If you are in Nova Scotia, and want professional help, Aeration Buddy is right here for you. Our team understands the nearby climate and lawn care challenges, and we’re committed to helping you maintain a lovely, grub-loose yard. Don’t let these tiny pests take over – contact us today for professional lawn care solutions that give you peace of mind.