White Grubs

White grubs are the larval stage of several different beetles. White grubs have cream colored bodies with yellow/brown heads, and black/dark brown brown hind parts. You will usually see white grubs lying in a curled or C-shaped position

White grubs feed on the roots of turf grasses, and when their numbers are high, the grass may be easily pulled from the soil due to the damage to the roots. When lower numbers of grubs are present, the grass may appear thin and unhealthy.

In order to determine the level of infestation, cut on three sides of a 12–inch square with a knife/shovel, pry the area back, and inspect the soil for any grubs present. Most healthy lawns can tolerate between 5-7 grubs/square foot. Sample several areas to accurately determine the average number of grubs/square foot.

The adult Japanese beetles are also a major pest that feed on the leaves of a variety of different plants, trees, and shrubs. Their damage can completely defoliate plants, causing them to appear nearly dead.