Lawn grubs feed on grass roots and can cause significant damage to an otherwise beautiful lawn, especially when there is a large infestation. Lawn grubs are usually found during warmer months and are the larval life-stage of different species of scarab beetles and moths.
StrathAyr have put together this brief guide to help you identify the signs of lawn grubs, so you can address the problem early and remove these pests before they damage your grass turf.
Brown Patches
One of the simplest ways to tell if your instant lawn is suffering from a lawn grub infestation is by looking for irregular brown patches throughout the lawn. This is especially true of brown patches that stay brown even in spring after you’ve fertilised and watered the lawn properly. These patches can vary in size depending on the amount of lawn grubs and how sporadically they are placed.
Grass Lifts Up or Feels Spongy
As lawn grubs feast on the roots of your lawn, you’ll also find that the grass will be easy to pull away from the ground like a carpet, since there are no longer any roots attached to the soil. A spongy lawn is another indication of lawn grub activity.
Increased Wildlife Activity
A lawn grub infestation is also associated with an increase in activity from birds and other wildlife species. This is because birds and rodents feed on lawn grub worms and will start having an unusually high interest in spending time on your lawn. You may also notice an increase in beetles and moths flying around the lawn, as females scout the area for somewhere to lay their eggs.
Treating Lawn Grub Problems
There are a range of insecticides designed to combat lawn grubs, from fast-acting sprays to destroy existing infestations to guard sprays to help prevent grubs before an infestation can occur. You can also get sand granular insecticides that are easier to distribute evenly over the lawn. Always read the instructions on these products and ensure it’s safe to use for your particular grass turf variety.
Dedicated Instant Lawn Experts in Victoria and Tasmania
StrathAyr are your trusted experts in Victoria and Tasmania when it comes to instant turf installation and care. Find out more about lawn care or get in touch with our team if you’re thinking about purchasing new turf.
