Picture this: a lush, green lawn, meticulously cared for, suddenly marred by unsightly brown patches. The culprit? Grubs. These subterranean nuisances can wreak havoc on your lawn, but fear not—Newell Services LLC is here to arm you with the knowledge to prevent and combat these invaders effectively.
Grubs are the larvae of various beetle species. In northeast Oklahoma the most prevalent species of beetle larvae are June bugs (sometimes called May or June Beetles, Chafers, and Doodlebugs) and Japanese beetles. They are C-shaped, cream-colored, and are a naturally occurring insect which serves a vital role in ecology. However, when these insect larvae accumulate beyond certain thresholds, they move from helpful insect into nuisance pest with severe infestations becoming destructive. These larvae are voracious feeders feasting on roots until maturity.
For this insect, it is generally accepted and fewer than 5 larvae found per square foot of soil is not a reason for concern. However, finding 5 or more in that same square foot would be a solid basis for corrective action. Just keep in mind when you are seeking these larvae out that overwinter they can be as much as 6-10" below grade.
Understanding the Grub Lifecycle: Grubs hatch from eggs laid in the soil during periods of visual insect activity. These larvae then spend the summer bulking up as quickly as possible, feasting on roots. As fall approaches, grubs burrow deeper into the soil to survive the winter. When soil temperatures warm with the arrival of Spring, they resurface briefly, feed a bit more, and then transform into adult beetles ready to create the next generation.
Identifying the Culprits: Knowing when grubs are most active is crucial for prevention. Keeping an eye on the timing of their lifecycle stages allows for targeted preventive measures. Typically, late spring to early summer is a suitable time to tackle grubs as this interferes before they take flight, procreate, and lay the next generation of larvae.
Grubs Love These Conditions:
High Quality Soil: If you lawn thrives in it, then so will grubs.
Moist Soil: Saturated soils ease movement and reduce larval energy consumption resulting in improved larval bulk.
Attractive Plants: Certain plants attract beetles that lay eggs in the soil. Identifying and managing these plants can reduce the risk of grub infestation.
Plants Targeted by Japanese Beetles:
Roses
Fruit trees (cherry, peach, plum, apple)
Grapes
Crape Myrtle
Beans and Peas
Hibiscus
Corn
Maple Trees
Plants Targeted by June Bugs:
Grass roots
Garden vegetables (potatoes, carrots, onions)
Corn (adults feed on leaves)
Fruit trees (larvae feed on roots)
Other plant roots
Prevention is always the best option to stop grubs from turn your lawn into a battleground. Armed with the knowledge of their lifecycle and the factors that attract them, you can take proactive steps to prevent and mitigate grub damage.
If you suspect you have a grub infestation, both DIY and professional treatments are available.
DIY - Systemic insecticides are the best option. These turn your grass into a toxic-to-insects food ensuring exposure to the larvae. Look for the active ingredient Imidacloprid. As always, be sure to read and understand the label prior to use. Keeping yourself and the environment safe is paramount!