For homeowners, the presence of grubs in their beautifully maintained grass lawns will always be bad news. Grubs are the larval form of insects such as chafers and beetles. They feed on the roots of grass, eventually destroying the entire lawn. Besides this, they attract other pests, such as skunks and raccoons, further harming one’s lawn. Homeowners looking to kill grubs can use certain simple techniques to protect their lawns from extensive damage.
1. Apply milky spores
Grubs are larval stages of various insects, including the beetle. If one finds their lawn infested with beetle grubs, one easy way to reduce their number is by introducing milky spores. They are a type of bacteria known as Bacillus popilliae and are sold in powder form. One needs to simply sprinkle this milky spore powder over the affected area of their lawn (as indicated on the package.) Once done, these bacteria will begin infecting the grubs. This is an eco-friendly, natural, and safe method to eliminate grubs. To achieve the best results, one should consistently apply milky spores a few times a year for around three years. It is important to note that milky spores can only thrive in a warm environment. So, this method is only recommended for use when the soil temperature is between 60-70° Fahrenheit.
2. Use neem oil
One of the safest methods to kill grubs in the lawn is using neem oil, which is considered among the most effective natural pest repellents. Neem oil contains a compound called azadirachtin, which disrupts the growth of insects. The oil also keeps the grubs from laying eggs or feeding on the grass. To kill grubs, one can mix neem oil with some parts of water to make a DIY spray. The details about the amount of oil and water to use are usually mentioned on the label of the neem oil bottle. One can then spray this solution on all the affected areas of their lawn.
3. Use beneficial nematodes
There are a few types of parasitic worms that can be highly beneficial for lawns and the soil. This is because these worms, or nematodes, feed on the grubs and kill them. Apart from grubs, they can also kill other insects and pests without harming the plants or the grass on one’s lawn. Nematodes are best used along with milky spores to remove and eliminate grubs completely. Also, it is advised to release nematodes into one’s lawn early in the morning or late afternoon to keep them away from harsh and direct sunlight.
4. Try other natural pathogens that destroy grubs
Besides the nematodes and the milky spores, there are some other natural pathogens that can kill grubs. One of these is a naturally occurring bacterium called Bacillus thuringiensis, which is usually applied directly to the soil. When the grubs ingest this bacterium, it disrupts their digestive system and kills them. One of the best things about these bacteria is that they do not harm other animals or pollinators. But, one may experience some skin irritation when applying these to the lawn, so it is important to wear gloves during the process.
5. Try pesticides
Apart from the organic methods, one can also use chemical pesticides to kill grubs in their lawn. But when buying these pesticides, it is important to be mindful of certain things. For instance, one should make sure to choose a pesticide that specifically targets grubs. One must also ensure they do not use pesticides when their pets or children are around and wear protective gear when applying them.
6. Stop watering the lawn
Grubs can not live in a dry environment and need moisture to survive. So, one of the simplest ways to kill grubs in one’s lawn is to let the lawn go dry for a few weeks—preferably around July and August. Without any moisture, the young grubs and eggs will die. But, this method can only be used if one has a lawn that can be revived after going dry through rehydration.
7. Use a borax mixture
Borax is a powerful compound often used in laundry detergents that can be used to kill grubs. But, if used in high amounts, it can even kill the grass. So, one must use it sparingly. Further, it is better to use a dilute solution—just a tablespoon of borax mixed with warm water. One can then spray this solution at the spots where they notice grubs or grub activity. But, it is important to note that borax contains a compound called boron, which can destroy plants if used excessively. So, it is advisable to test the borax mixture on a small area initially and apply it sparingly only in the parts of the lawn where grubs are visible to prevent damage to plants.
