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White grubs are among the most destructive insect pests of turfgrass.
They feed below the soil surface on the roots and rhizomes of
all commonly used turfgrass species and cultivars, and are capable
of eliminating the entire root system of the plant. Where abundant,
white grubs are capable of destroying large areas of turf in a
short period of time.
After hatching from eggs, white grubs begin feeding on the roots
and underground stems of turfgrasses. The first evidence of injury
is localized patches of pale, discolored and dying grass displaying
symptoms of moisture stress. Damaged areas are small at first,
but rapidly enlarge and coalesce as grubs grow and expand their
feeding range. Turf in such areas will have a spongy feel under
foot and can be easily lifted from the soil surface or rolled
like a carpet, revealing the C-shaped white grubs underneath.
Damage is most apparent in mid-August through early September
when white grub feeding activity is greatest.
Inadequate irrigation and drought stress may compound damage to
turf by white grubs. Egg-laying females are generally attracted
to vigorous, well-watered turf, and adequate moisture is essential
for eggs to complete development. Once eggs have hatched, however,
white grubs will feed on either drought stressed or well-irrigated
turf.
Several animals, especially skunks, raccoons, and moles, are highly
attracted to turf insect infestations, and signs of their foraging
in an area are strong indications of white grub activity. Flocks
of birds, particularly starlings, feeding in the turf provide
additional evidence of a possible infestation.
White Grubs as well as other turf damaging insects can be treated
preventively or curatively with insecticide in early fall. If
you have had problems in the past a preventive 6 month treatment
is recommended. This is also a wise investment if you plan to
seed this fall as young turf is highly vulnerable to attack. Please
call the office to find out more information or to schedule this
treatment.
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