Grub Worms Are Lurking Below Par: How to Spot and Stop Them Before They Wreck Your Lawn

Underground Enemies: The Hidden Danger to Your Lawn

You won’t see them coming. You won’t hear them either. But give grub worms a few weeks and they’ll chew through your lawn’s root system like it’s the back nine at Augusta.

If your once-healthy turf is browning out in patches or feels like carpet peeling off a floor—grub worms may be the cause. These pests are common in Central Texas and can quietly ruin lawns before homeowners ever realize they’re there.

What Are Grub Worms?

Grub worms are the larvae of June beetles and other scarab beetles. In spring and fall, they feed on grassroots just below the surface—weakening the lawn from underneath.

Signs of a Grub Worm Infestation

Look for these classic giveaways:

• Irregular brown patches that worsen over time
• Turf that lifts easily from the soil, like loose sod
• Visible white C-shaped grubs beneath the surface
• Increased activity from skunks, raccoons, or birds digging for food
• Lawn feels soft or spongy when walked on

Grub Damage Timeline

• Spring (May–June): Eggs laid in soil
• Late Summer (July–September): Grubs begin feeding aggressively
• Fall: Major root damage appears

Left untreated, they’ll return year after year and compound the damage.

Grub Prevention Playbook

1. Healthy Lawn = Strong Defense

• Proper watering and fertilization helps turf resist grub damage
• Aerate soil annually to prevent compaction and improve root depth

2. Biological Control

• Introduce beneficial nematodes (natural grub predators)
• Apply milky spore for longer-term suppression (best for Japanese beetle grubs)

3. Preventative Insecticides

• Apply preventative grub control in early summer (before eggs hatch)
• Use products containing imidacloprid or chlorantraniliprole
• Always follow label instructions or hire a professional

What If It’s Too Late?

If grubs have already done serious damage, your lawn may need a recovery plan:

• Spot treat with curative insecticides
• Reseed or resod damaged areas
• Apply root-enhancing fertilizers
• Improve watering to support regrowth

Loopers' Expert Grub Control Strategy

Our turf team knows when and how to strike. From proactive treatments to full-scale grub rehab, we build a tailored plan that stops the invasion—and strengthens your lawn to resist future attacks.

Let’s Root Out the Problem

If your lawn feels soft, looks thin, or won’t bounce back—grub worms might be the culprit. We’re here to dig deeper and bring your turf back to top form.

Disclaimer: Grub control guidance from certified turf experts at Loopers Lawn Care.