Time to treat for Grubs

White grubs are turf pests found throughout North Carolina. It is not uncommon to find 10 or more grubs per square foot feeding on grass roots. Heavily infested turf wilts or dies, often leaving the lawn feeling soft and spongy. Grubs may feed for several months before any turf damage becomes visible. Severely damaged turf may be rolled back like a carpet because its root system has been destroyed. Bluegrass and bentgrass are the varieties most seriously attacked, but all grasses are susceptible.

Because of their underground feeding habits, white grubs are more difficult to detect and control than many of the pests that feed above ground. If they are promptly detected and identified, they can be controlled through treatments applied at the appropriate time.

The timing of the insecticide application is critical if control is to be effective. There are two approaches, preventative and curative. Some of the newer products (Merit® and Mach 2®) are preventative, and are most effective when applied prior to when the eggs are laid. Now is the time to consider making these preventative treatments as the end of April and 1st of May is usually an ideal time for this area.