Although there are several different types of grub that can cause damage in this area, the most devastating grub recently has been the European Chafer Grub. The larvae (grub) live below the surface of the soil and feed off the roots of the grass. As the grass begins to die it will feel spongy to walk on and the grass will roll up easily as the roots are no longer attached to the soil. Other signs that grubs are present include skunks, raccoons, and birds, digging up the lawn to feed on the grub.

Life Cycle:
These grubs complete their life cycle in one year surviving as larvae in the soil over winter. As the soil warms up in the spring, the larvae return to the surface where they wait to pupate into the European Chafer beetle, which looks similar to a June beetle except it is smaller and tan in colour. In mid to late June, the beetles come out of the soil and fly to trees and shrubs where they mate. These adults are active for two to three weeks and during this time the female can deposit 25 to 50 eggs in a lawn. The larvae hatch in mid to late July and feed on the grass crowns and roots until late fall. The mature grub moves down into the soil as the soil freezes and will return to the surface in early April.

Control:
The best times to control the grubs are from late June through to early August if using Merit and August through September if using nematodes. If you suspect you have a grub problem or notice animals digging up your lawn, contact Kendall Lawn Care for proper diagnosis and treatment.