White grubs are the larvae of beetles such as the chafer or Japanese beetle. The eggs are laid in July in the turf. The problems caused by grubs are mainly due to the fact that they feed on grass roots, resulting in premature yellowing of the lawn. The infested section of lawn should be lifted and replaced.
Frequently asked questions
- How can I prevent the proliferation of white grubs?
- Choose a diversified lawn (ecological grass or ground cover) rather than a traditional lawn.
- Keep your lawn at a height of 8 cm to allow deep rooting.
- Use 100% natural fertilizer (compost), as high-nitrogen fertilizers attract larvae.
- Dose your lawn to keep it drier during the mowing, hatching and larval development periods (mid-July to mid-September).
- Encourage the presence of insectivorous birds that feed on grubs, such as the American Robin.
- Treat the soil with nematodes (a biopesticide) between mid-July and early September. Ask your local horticulturalist for advice.