How To Get Rid Of Grubs

For a home or business owner looking to get rid of grubs on their own, the most effective approach involves a combination of identification, cultural control, biological treatment, and—if needed—targeted chemical intervention. Grubs are the larvae of beetles such as Japanese beetles, June bugs, and European chafers. They feed on grass roots, leading to dead patches of turf and increased vulnerability to wildlife digging for food. Here’s how to get rid of grubs on your own:

Identify the Problem

Before taking action, confirm that grubs are the culprit.

Signs of grub damage: Brown or dead patches in the lawn that peel back easily like carpet, spongy turf, or increased animal activity (skunks, raccoons, or birds digging).
Inspection: Pull back a small section of turf in affected areas. Finding more than 5–10 grubs per square foot usually indicates a problem that requires treatment.

Cultural and Preventative Control

Healthy lawns are more resistant to grub damage, so start by improving lawn care practices.

Proper watering: Avoid overwatering—grubs thrive in consistently moist soil. Water deeply but infrequently to promote deep root growth.
Mowing height: Keep grass around 3 inches high to encourage strong roots.
Aeration: Core aerate your lawn to improve drainage and reduce thatch, which attracts beetles for egg-laying.
Overseeding: Overseed damaged areas in the fall to thicken the turf and discourage beetle activity.

Biological Treatments (Natural Options)

For those who prefer eco-friendly control, biological methods can be very effective if applied correctly.

Beneficial Nematodes (Heterorhabditis bacteriophora): Microscopic worms that invade and kill grubs. Apply to moist soil in late summer or early fall when grubs are near the surface. Keep the soil moist for at least a week after application.
Milky Spore (Bacillus popilliae): A natural bacterium that targets Japanese beetle grubs. It takes time (1–3 years) to build up effectiveness but offers long-term control. Best applied in warm, moist conditions.

Chemical Control (When Necessary)

If infestation levels are high, targeted chemical products can help—especially when timed correctly.

Preventative treatments: Apply imidacloprid or chlorantraniliprole in late spring to early summer before grubs hatch. These protect turf from new larvae.
Curative treatments: If grubs are already present (late summer to early fall), use carbaryl or trichlorfon for immediate knockdown. Water in the product thoroughly per label directions.

⚠️ Always read and follow the label carefully. Misapplication can harm beneficial insects or fail to control the infestation.

Long-Term Maintenance

Keep a consistent lawn care schedule to prevent future infestations.
Avoid leaving outdoor lights on during midsummer nights—these attract adult beetles that lay eggs in lawns.
Inspect your property yearly, especially after a history of grub issues.

The Best Way To Get Rid Of Grubs

While DIY grub control methods can help reduce mild infestations, our professional pest management offers a level of precision, consistency, and long-term protection that homeowners and business owners simply can’t achieve on their own. Grub infestations can be deceptive—damage often appears after the larvae have been feeding for months, and without the right timing, even the best products can fail to work effectively. Our professional pest control specialists eliminate this guesswork by combining scientific knowledge, advanced treatment options, and strategic timing.

Expert Identification and Targeted Solutions: Grubs aren’t all the same—Japanese beetle, June beetle, and European chafer larvae each have different life cycles and vulnerabilities. Our professionals accurately identify the specific species, population density, and infestation stage before treatment. This ensures the right product and application window are chosen, maximizing effectiveness and minimizing environmental impact.
Professional-Grade Products and Application Techniques: Many over-the-counter grub control products contain lower concentrations of active ingredients or have narrow treatment windows. We use commercial-grade formulations with longer residual effects and higher efficacy. We also apply treatments using calibrated equipment to ensure even soil penetration and optimal coverage, reducing the likelihood of re-infestation.
Timing and Life Cycle Expertise: Grub treatments are highly dependent on timing. Preventative treatments must be applied before eggs hatch, while curative treatments need to reach larvae when they are feeding near the surface. Our professionals apply products precisely when they’ll be most effective—something that’s nearly impossible to do accurately without specialized training and experience.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Approach: Our professional services go beyond simple chemical applications. Our experts integrate cultural practices, and ongoing monitoring to deliver comprehensive grub management. This IPM approach not only eliminates existing grubs but also prevents new infestations while preserving beneficial organisms in the soil.
Guaranteed Results and Long-Term Prevention: We stand behind our work with service guarantees and ongoing protective services. We ensure that infestations are fully resolved and that turf damage is addressed or prevented. This peace of mind is invaluable for property owners who want reliable, lasting protection without the risk of reoccurring damage or wasted effort.
Cost and Property Protection: Our professional services save money in the long run by preventing extensive lawn repair, re-sodding, or repeated product purchases. Considering how quickly grubs can destroy turf, investing in our expert treatment protects your property’s aesthetic value and structural integrity.

While DIY grub control can help with light infestations, our professional pest control is the most reliable, efficient, and lasting solution. With the expertise to identify, time, and treat grub problems accurately, our professionals deliver healthier lawns and peace of mind for both homeowners and business owners.