Controlling Grub Infestations

In Texas, white grubs are commonly found in lawns and gardens. These squirmy, c-shaped critters have three pairs of legs and are the larva form of the June beetle or June bug. Their creamy white color make them stand out when found in lawns. Not all populations of grubs need controlling, however. They are unlikely to cause sufficient damage to be worth the time and effort to treat if there aren’t a significant number of them. Typically, if you do not find more than five grubs per square foot in your lawn, they are not a threat.

Infestation

Grubs only attack St. Augustine, Bermuda, zoysia, and buffalo grasses. They tunnel through the soil and feed off of the roots and other underground parts of grasses. If your grass is healthy and dense with a strong root system, your lawn should be able to tolerate up to ten grubs per square foot. If it is damaged or weakened, though, the ratio will be much lower. You can test for grubs simply by using a flat spade to take a sample of the turf, counting the grubs, and comparing your findings to the ratio; if you find more than three grubs in a 6” x 6” sample, for example, treatment is a good idea. Take many samples around your lawn to determine which areas are infested. Grubs are most active during the summer and fall.

Treatment

The most effective time for treatment in Texas is mid-June until late July. While there are many insecticides available on the market that will effectively kill grubs, they will also effectively damage your environment and weaken the natural defence systems of your soil. The least toxic solution is to apply beneficial nematodes to the affected areas.

Lawn care can be highly rewarding and satisfying; don’t let a small setback discourage you. If you are looking for a new start, contact The Grass Outlet today to explore your options.