Maintaining a lush green lawn in the UK during the summer can be a challenge thanks to various pests and diseases that can wreak havoc on the grass. Chafer grubs are one common lawn-destroying culprit. In this blog, we’ll provide you with an overview of this pest, how to identify them and, most importantly, how Greensleeves can help you tackle an infestation effectively.
Chafer grubs
Chafer grubs are the larvae of chafer beetles. These white, C-shaped grubs are often found in lawns and feed on the roots of grass. Female chafer beetles typically lay their eggs in late June or early July, depending on weather conditions. The eggs are buried around 5cm deep into the soil beneath your lawn and have a typical incubation period of roughly two weeks – meaning that most of the eggs are hatched by mid-late July.
During the summer months, the newly-hatched grubs will feed vigorously close to the surface of your lawn, making this the time for vigilance. Signs of chafer grubs include patches of dead or dying grass that can be easily lifted, as well as increased bird, fox or badger activity as they’re attracted to the juicy grubs. If left unchecked, chafer grubs can cause significant damage to your lawn, resulting in brown patches and a weakened root system. If they survive though to the cooler autumn months they will burrow further down into the root system for the winter, before emerging in the spring to feast and wreak havoc for a second time!
The Greensleeves difference – how we can help
Professional assessment
Greensleeves understands that each lawn is unique, and your local lawn expert will conduct a thorough assessment of your lawn to identify the presence of chafer grubs. They will evaluate the extent of the damage and provide you with a tailored treatment plan to restore the health and beauty of your lawn.
Chafer grub control
Greensleeves offers effective chafer grub control treatments for these pests – to help prevent further damage. Our trained technicians use specially formulated, pet-and-child-friendly insecticides which specifically target the grubs, significantly reducing their population, allowing your lawn to recover and thrive.
Lawn renovation
For lawns severely damaged by chafer grubs, Greensleeves can provide a comprehensive lawn renovation service. This may involve scarification to remove dead grass and thatch, overseeding to promote new growth and top-dressing to improve soil health. By combining these techniques with ongoing lawn care maintenance, Greensleeves can help you achieve a lush and vibrant lawn once again.
To find your local Greensleeves lawn care expert and book a lawn assessment visit, click here
