Now Or Later | Knowing When To Apply Grub Control And Why

Let’s be honest—grubs aren’t the most exciting topic in lawn care. In fact, they’re kind of gross. But if you’ve ever stepped onto your lawn only to notice soft, spongy patches or mysterious brown spots spreading like wildfire, grubs might be to blame. And knowing when to apply grub control can be the difference between a thriving yard and one that’s fighting for survival.

At Think Green Lawn Service, we talk to homeowners every day who are surprised to learn that those little white C-shaped larvae living beneath the surface can do so much damage. The good news? You don’t have to let them win.

Here’s everything you need to know about grubs, how to spot them, and most importantly—when to apply grub control to keep your lawn healthy and strong.

What Are Grubs, Anyway?

Grubs are the larval stage of various beetles—Japanese beetles, June bugs, and chafers, to name a few. They live underground and feed on the roots of your grass. While a few grubs in your soil are normal and even part of the ecosystem, an infestation can cause major damage fast.

Left untreated, grubs can:

• Destroy large patches of lawn by severing grass roots.
• Attract animals like raccoons, skunks, and birds who dig up your yard to eat them.
• Weaken your turf, making it vulnerable to disease, heat, and drought.

The worst part? You often don’t notice them until the damage is done.

How to Tell If You Have a Grub Problem

Before you worry about when to apply grub control, let’s figure out if grubs are even the problem.

Signs of a grub infestation include:

• Brown patches that don’t improve with watering.
• Spongy grass that lifts up easily like a loose carpet.
• Increased animal activity, especially digging or scratching.
• Grass roots that are missing or damaged when you pull back a section.

Want to know for sure? Try this quick test:

1. Use a flat shovel to dig a small square of turf, about 2 inches deep and the size of a dinner plate.
2. Count the number of white C-shaped grubs you see.

If you find fewer than 5 per square foot and there’s no visible damage, you’re probably in the clear. But more than 5? It’s time to act.

When to Apply Grub Control for Best Results

Here’s the thing—timing matters. A lot.

The best time to apply grub control depends on whether you’re dealing with prevention or treatment:

Preventative Grub Control (Best Option)

• When to apply grub control: Late spring to early summer (May–June)
• Why? Because this is when beetles lay their eggs and grubs are just hatching. They’re small, close to the surface, and easier to control.
• What to use: Preventative products containing chlorantraniliprole or imidacloprid

Preventative treatments are the easiest and most effective way to stop grubs before they start doing damage.

Curative Grub Control (When You Already Have an Infestation)

• When to apply grub control: Late summer to early fall (August–October)
• Why? Grubs are actively feeding during this time, and you may already see turf damage.
• What to use: Curative products containing carbaryl or trichlorfon

Curative treatments are less effective than prevention and may require follow-up visits. That’s why early detection is key!

Mowing and Watering Tips Before Application

If you’re planning to apply grub control—either DIY or with the help of professionals—here are a few important tips to follow:

• Mow your lawn before applying grub control. This helps reduce the number of blooming wildflowers, which protects pollinators like bees.
• Water your lawn lightly after applying grub control to help move the product into the soil where the grubs live. Just don’t overdo it!
• Don’t apply if rain is in the forecast within 24 hours. Heavy rain can wash away the product before it activates.

Always read and follow product labels, especially if you’re doing it yourself. Misuse can lead to lawn damage—or worse, ineffective treatment.

Can You Handle Grub Control on Your Own?

We get this question a lot. And while the answer is technically yes, there are some serious limitations.

Here’s what DIYers are up against:

• Retail products are weaker than the commercial-grade options we use.
• Timing is tricky. Many homeowners apply treatment too early or too late.
• Spot-treatments don’t work. Grubs don’t stay in one small area—they spread underground.

That’s why we always recommend professional help for existing grub infestations. At Think Green, we don’t just guess—we use soil temperature monitoring, localized timing, and expert application to ensure the treatment works the first time.

Bonus Tip: Healthy Lawns Resist Grub Damage

A strong, well-maintained lawn is your best defense. Healthy grass can handle a few grubs without showing signs of stress.

Here’s how to build a grub-resistant lawn:

• Aerate annually to keep roots strong and oxygen flowing.
• Fertilize appropriately—but don’t overdo it, or you’ll encourage beetle activity.
• Water deeply and less frequently to promote deep root growth.
• Keep your grass mowed to the proper height (usually 2.5 to 3.5 inches for most Georgia grasses).

Think Green can also help design a year-round care plan that addresses everything from weeds and pests to soil health and irrigation.

Get Ahead of Grubs—Before They Take Over

Grubs are sneaky, but they’re no match for a proactive plan. The key is knowing when to apply grub control and acting at the right time—whether you’re preventing a problem or dealing with one that’s already started.

Don’t wait until brown patches start spreading or the raccoons start digging. Let Think Green Lawn Service help you protect your lawn and your peace of mind.

Call (678) 648-2556 today to schedule a grub inspection or request a free quote for lawn pest services. Whether you need prevention, treatment, or full-service lawn care, we’ve got your back!