Chafer Grubs on the Rise!
Over the past few weeks I’ve seen quite a lot of lawns suffering from grub damage. This is usually manifest by pale coloured turf and signs of bird damage to the lawn. Often the birds cause more of a mess than the grubs!
Life Cycle and Appearance in Lawns
Chafer grubs are the larvae of chafer beetles, which can cause significant damage to lawns by feeding on grass roots. Understanding their life cycle and appearance is crucial for effective management.
Life Cycle
Chafer grubs go through four main stages:
1. Egg Stage (Summer) – Adult chafer beetles lay eggs in the soil, usually in June and July. These eggs hatch within a few weeks.
2. Larval Stage (Summer to Spring) – The grubs emerge and begin feeding on grass roots. They grow through multiple stages (instars) before burrowing deeper into the soil in winter.
3. Pupal Stage (Spring to Early Summer) – In late spring, the grubs stop feeding and transform into pupae underground, preparing to emerge as beetles.
4. Adult Stage (Summer) – Fully developed chafer beetles emerge from the soil, mate, and lay eggs, restarting the cycle.
Appearance in Lawns
Chafer grubs are creamy-white with a characteristic curled “C” shape. They have brown heads and six legs near the front of their bodies. Fully grown grubs can reach up to 2 cm in length. Their feeding weakens grass roots, causing patches of yellowing, thinning turf. Additionally, birds, badgers, and other predators may rip up lawns to feed on the grubs, exacerbating the damage.
Managing Chafer Grubs
To control infestations, homeowners can use biological treatments like nematodes, encourage natural predators, or improve lawn health to withstand damage. Monitoring the lawn for early signs of infestation can help prevent severe damage.
By understanding their life cycle and appearance, you can take proactive steps to keep your lawn healthy and resilient.
TurfSolv Pest Control
I recommend TurfSolv as a control method for these grubs. Whilst it’s not a pesticide it does help create an environment that the grubs don’t like. More information can be found on the TurfSolv website.
For customers wanting to buy the product click on the link below. Using the discount code SHARPES, at the checkout, will get you a 5% discount from Green Care, a trusted and local supplier.
