Think grubs are something that happens in other people’s back yards? Think again! Landscaping experts estimate that grubs cause more than $ 234 million in damage annually. And those are just the people who actually do something about it.
So what are grubs? Most people are familiar with Japanese beetles. These insects are serious problems for trees and Long Island landscapes. So while your focus may be on protecting your ornamentals, you may not know that you’re also protecting your Long Island lawn as well. Grubs are the offspring of Japanese beetles. Before they set up shop in your trees, they lay their eggs underground. The white c-shaped larvae hatch and immediately begin feeding upon the root system of your turf. This feeding can continue for more than a year, and unfortunately it takes about that much time for homeowners to notice the damage. However, by the time damage is noticeable, it’s too late and the turf may need to be replaced completely.
Unfortunately, just being attentive to your Long Island lawn won’t discourage an attack of grubs. Healthy, moist Long Island lawns are actually ideal for these pests, much in the way healthy heads of hair are ideal for lice on humans. Signs that grubs have already begun to set up shop under your Long Island lawn are brown spots and grass that pull away easily from the soil. The eggs hatch in the late summer months, but the damage likely will not appear until the early fall months.
Although you can buy grub control products, it’s best to put it in the hands of a landscaping professional because not only will you have to remove the grubs, but the damage to your Long Island lawn is irreversible and new grass will have to be laid or planted.
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