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Grub Control
White grubs are major insect pests that feed on the roots of some
turf. Quick detection, regular watering and treatment prevent extensive
lawn damage.
Signs of trouble
Moles, skunks and birds feeding in the lawn are often the first
sign of a potential grub problem. Grub damaged turf can typically
be rolled back like a carpet because roots are no longer present.
Control is recommended when more than 8 grubs are found in a square
foot area.
In July and August, when the lawn is under stress from heat and
drought, yellow or brown areas appear, indicating loss of roots
from feeding grubs.
How do white grubs look?
Grubs are immature or larval stage of beetles such as the Japanese
beetle, European chafer and Asiatic garden beetle. Most white grubs
can be distinguished by their characteristic C-shape curl, whitish
body and brown head. They measure 1/4 inch when young and exrend
to 2 inches when fully developed.
Control Strategies
Once the lifecycle of grubs is understood, it is easier to determine
the time and method of control. Adult beetles lay eggs in mid-summer
and deposit them a few inches below the soil in lawn and garden
areas. In 2 weeks, young grubs hatch and develop into full-size
grubs which feed on the roots below the soil surface. As soil temperatures
drop in the fall, the grubs move deeper in the ground where they
spend the winter.
In spring, as the soil warms up, the grubs move upward to begin
feeding on roots. Adult beetles emerge, mate and lay eggs during
the summer, thereby starting the cycle all over again. Research
indicates that the best time for control is the young grub stage
when they are actively feeding on roots.
Ways to control white grubs
Cultural Practices
Research indicates that healthy turf often counteracts grub damage
to some extent.
- Plant the variety of turfgrass that is best suited to your growing
conditions (soil, heat and lawn use) so it will not be under extra stress. Ask your
Southern States lawn expert for the improved mixes for your site.
- Water routinely during dry spells so turf is healthy and not drought stressed.
- Fertilize turf as recommended by soil test results.
Chemical Controls
Summer
If grub damage warrants control in summer (usually August when
young grubs are feeding on grass roots) use Grub Control with imidacloprid
which provides season-long control or Sevin. Servinor Permethrin
is also effective.
Spring
Spring is also a good time to apply grub control. Milky Spore is
an excellent long term solution that will not harm pets, children
or ground water supplies. It should be applied before grubs hatch
in early spring. Treat your lawn with the products indicated above
if hatched grubs are near the soil surface.
Always read the product label carefully for application instructions
and watering advice. The insecticide should be thoroughly watered
in immediately to direct it down into the soil where the grubs are
feeding.
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