Grubs in your lawn?

a guide for lawn care professionals and homeowners

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TREAT IN THE FALL - IF AT ALL

You might be tempted to treat grubs in the spring, when you see last fall’s damage—but most spring treatments are a waste of time and money. The grubs have already damaged your lawn and are fairly resistant to insecticides at this time. Furthermore, even if you could eradicate them, summer will bring a new batch of beetles to your lawn.

Sample for grubs in the late summer, as described in this brochure. If you decide to treat, do so in the late summer or early fall, when grubs are susceptible to both biological and chemical insecticides and haven’t had a chance to cause severe damage. Treat only the areas where grub populations exceed the suggested thresholds, in areas of your lawn that are aesthetically important.

Beneficial nematodes (microscopic worms) of the species Heterorhabditis bacteriophora are a non-chemical product that can be used on young grubs. A variety of chemical insecticides may also be applied. Selection depends on the species and life stage of grubs present. Products containing imidacloprid are unique in that you must apply them before egg-laying and should therefore base treatment decisions on past history of grub infestation. Consult product labels and your local Cornell Cooperative Extension office for legal and recommended practices.

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These pages are maintained by the New York State IPM Program, part of Cornell Cooperative Extension. All material is protected by Section 107 of the 1976 copyright law. Copyright is held by Cornell University and the New York State IPM Program.