The most damaging turf insect in Oklahoma is the grub worm. The term grub usually refers to many different insect larvae. The typical grub is a ground dwelling inhabitant of landscapes, eating the roots of plants. The most common grub found in the region is the June beetle, but there are many other grubs that can cause damage to lawns and landscapes. Grubs are about one-half to one inch in length, and are found curled up in a C-shaped position. They are pale to white in color and have a brown head. During April and May, they move to the soil surface and become very active in destroying lawns. During early summer the grub becomes a beetle which then lays eggs back in your lawn in mid summer. Eggs hatch in July and August. Then the young grubs do their greatest damage until the first frost forces them deeper into the soil.
Grubs are easy to identify but often go unnoticed because they live underground. To identify early signs of grub infestation, look for the following:
- Grass is brown in patches, especially during hot or dry weather
- Irregular shaped areas of weakened or dying grass
- You can easily roll the turf back like carpet. This is because there are no roots left to anchor the turf. For this reason, there is no way for the turf to extract water. So the turf will yellow and die quickly.
- Digging holes may appear over night. This is from skunks, raccoons, armadillos, moles, birds and other varmints. They all love the taste of the juicy little guys.
The best time to treat for grubs is August through September. The grubs or larval stage are small in size and are easier to control than in the spring when they are much larger and stronger.
Grubs won’t disappear on their own, if you have noticed grub damage; call Western Lawns at 405.943.4242 for the best grub control program on the market.