Grubs, the larvae of various beetles, can wreak havoc on your lawn before you even realise there’s a problem. For tradies and businesses involved in lawn care and landscaping, and even homeowners, understanding how to spot and manage these pests is crucial for maintaining healthy turf. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the signs of grubs on your lawn and provide effective strategies to combat them.
What Are Lawn Grubs?
There are 2 different types of Lawn grubs in Australia, the first are surface dwelling lawn grubs which known as Cut Worms. They are the offspring of harmless moths such as Bogong Moth, Cut Worm Moth and Black Cut Worm. These larvae feed on the turf, usually at night. ,The second type of lawn grubs are Root Feeding Lawn Grubs they are the immature stage of different beetles, including Japanese beetles, European chafers, and June beetles. These grubs live beneath the surface of the lawn, feeding on the roots of grass which can cause significant damage over time and can eventually decimate the lawn beyond repair.
Recognising the Signs of Grubs in Your Lawn
Detecting grubs early is crucial to prevent significant damage to your lawn. Understanding the common signs can help you take timely action. Here’s a closer look at each indicator:
Thinning, Yellowing, and Weakened Grass
Grubs feed on the roots of grass, which are essential for absorbing water and nutrients. As these roots are damaged, you may notice your lawn starting to thin out. The grass may lose its vibrant green colour, turning yellow, and the overall health of the turf may decline. This weakening makes the lawn less resilient to environmental stresses such as high temperatures or low rainfall.
Spongy Feel Underfoot
A clear sign of a severe grub infestation is when the lawn feels spongy as you walk over it. This sensation is due to the significant damage to the root system, which reduces the turf’s stability and density. The sponginess results from the turf layer becoming detached from its soil base because there are not enough healthy roots to anchor it firmly.
Irregular Brown Patches
One of the most visible signs of grub activity is the appearance of irregular brown patches on your lawn. These patches occur because the damaged roots cannot effectively absorb water or nutrients, causing the grass to die off in spots. These patches may expand and merge over time if the infestation is not addressed, leading to extensive damage to the lawn’s appearance.
Increased Bird Activity
An increase in bird activity on your lawn can also indicate the presence of grubs. Birds feed on grubs and may be seen pecking at the grass more frequently. While this natural pest control can help reduce grub numbers, excessive bird activity can further stress the lawn and exacerbate damage, especially if the turf is already weakened.
Managing Grub Infestations
Here’s what you can do if you suspect a grub infestation:
1. Confirm the Infestation
Dig up a small section of turf. If you find more than five grubs per square foot, treatment may be necessary. Throwing out some hot soapy water (dis liquid will work) and waiting to see if any grubs will come to the surface.
Another test is to leave a wet, white towel out on the lawn overnight and check in the morning if any grubs have made their way up to the iridescent light created by the towel.
Lawn Grubs move quickly and love nothing more than a beautiful lush lawn and they can move quickly from one yard to the next.
2. Choose the Right Treatment
Grub killers come in various forms, including granules and liquids. Acelepryn is hands-down the most effective against grubs when applied at the right time. Acelepryn is a preventative and curative product that is unmatched on the market.
3. Apply Preventative Measures
Preventative treatments in early September can stop new eggs from developing into lawn-damaging grubs. Acelepryn will offer you 6 months protection from lawn grubs and is best applied in September and March for the most effective protection.
4. Promote Lawn Health
A healthy lawn can withstand and recover from grub damage more effectively. Ensure your turf receives adequate water, nutrients, and aeration.
5. Natural Predators
Encourage or introduce natural predators like birds or nematodes that prey on grubs.
6. Regular Monitoring
Regularly inspect for signs of grubs and treat early if they reappear.
Why Choose Australian Lawn Concepts?
At Australian Lawn Concepts, we partner with homeowners to ensure they have access to the best turf solutions. We understand the challenges posed by pests like grubs and offer expert advice and high-quality products tailored to your needs.
While we don’t offer maintenance services, our expertise in turf installation and management makes us a leading supplier in Australia. We’re here to help you choose the right turf and ensure it thrives, despite the challenges that pests might pose.
For anyone facing grub issues or needing superior quality turf, reach out to us. Our team is ready to assist you in designing and installing the perfect landscape solution for your clients, ensuring long-lasting beauty and durability. We also have lawn grub killer products that can assist you with lawn grub treatment.
Explore more about our services and how we can help elevate your turf projects by visiting our website and exploring the best grub killer lawn treatments available. Let us help you create lush, healthy lawns that stand the test of time and pests!