How to Identify & Treat Lawn Grub Damage

Visible Damage in lawn caused by animals digging for grubs.

Lawn grubs are one of the most common and destructive pests that can wreak havoc on your grass. If left untreated, they can cause widespread damage, turning a once lush lawn into a patchy, brown mess. In this post, we’ll cover how to identify lawn grub damage, ways to confirm an infestation, and the best treatment options to restore your lawn to health in the Halifax Region.

What Are Lawn Grubs?

Lawn grubs are the larvae of beetles, such as Japanese beetles, European chafers, and June bugs. These C-shaped, white larvae live beneath the soil and feed on grassroots, weakening your lawn’s ability to absorb water and nutrients. As they grow, they can attract animals like raccoons and crows that dig up your yard searching for a meal.

Signs of Lawn Grub Damage

1. Brown, Wilting, or Dead Patches

One of the first signs of a grub problem is irregular brown patches in your lawn, especially in late summer and early fall. Since grubs sever the roots, the grass loses its ability to stay hydrated and starts to die.

2. Increased Animal Activity

Raccoons, crows, and other animals love feasting on lawn grubs. If you notice these creatures digging up your yard overnight, they may be after a grub infestation.

3. Presence of Grubs in the Soil

To confirm a grub infestation, peel back a small section of your lawn (about one square foot) in a damaged area. If you find more than 5-10 grubs per square foot, it’s time to take action.

How to Treat Lawn Grubs

1. Grub Control Methods

Since most chemical grub control applications are not permitted in Halifax, alternative natural methods are the best way to manage lawn grubs, typically however these treatments are considered preventative treatments for the following season:

• Beneficial nematodes: These microscopic worms actively seek out and kill grubs without harming the environment. Apply them in late summer or early fall when grubs are young and actively feeding.

• Diatomaceous earth: A natural substance that can help reduce grub populations when applied to the soil.

• Increase Brix Levels: Lawns with higher Brix (sugar) levels are naturally more resistant to pests, including grubs. Applying organic fertilizers, compost, and microbial inoculants can improve plant health and increase Brix levels, making your lawn less attractive to pests.
  

2. Encourage Lawn Recovery

Once you’ve treated the grubs, help your lawn recover by:

• Overseeding bare patches to fill in damaged areas.

• Applying a balanced fertilizer to boost root growth.

• Watering deeply but infrequently to strengthen your lawn’s resilience.

• Encouraging Natural Pest Resistance: Healthy soil and nutrient-dense grass are naturally more resistant to pests. By improving soil biology through compost, organic amendments, and proper fertilization, your lawn will develop stronger natural defences against future grub infestations.

3. Deter Animals from Digging Up Your Lawn

If raccoons, or crows are tearing up your lawn to feast on grubs, consider these deterrents:

• Tinfoil strips: Placing reflective tinfoil strips or aluminium pie plates around the lawn can scare away birds and animals.

• Motion-activated sprinklers: These can startle and deter pests from returning.

• Strong-smelling deterrents: Spraying the lawn with a mixture of garlic, castor oil, or predator urine can make it less attractive to foraging animals.

• Lawn netting: Temporarily laying down bird netting can help prevent animals from digging up affected areas.

Preventing Future Grub Problems

• Maintain a Healthy Lawn: Thick, well-fertilized grass is more resistant to pests. Regular aeration, overseeding, and proper fertilization can help.

• Mow at the Proper Height: Keeping your grass at 3-4 inches reduces stress and deters beetles from laying eggs.

• Monitor Annually: Perform a simple grub check every summer to catch problems early.
  

Final Thoughts

Lawn grubs can cause serious damage if left untreated, but by identifying the signs early and applying the right treatments, you can save your lawn from destruction. If you suspect grubs are invading your yard, don’t wait—take action to restore and protect your lawn! Need expert help? NovaGrass Turf Care offers professional grub control treatments in the Halifax region. Contact us today for a free lawn assessment!

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