Grub Control for Lawns in July | Lawn Pest Guide

As someone who’s spent countless hours nurturing my lawn, I know how frustrating it is to see all that effort undone by tiny, hidden pests. July is prime time for grub damage, and if you’re not paying attention now, you could be in for a brown, patchy lawn by August. Let me walk you through what I’ve learned about grubs, how to spot the warning signs, and the best ways of grub control for Lawns — both conventional and organic.

What Are Grubs?

Grubs are the larvae of various beetles—most commonly Japanese beetles, June bugs, and European chafers. These white, C-shaped pests live underground and feed on the roots of your grass. You’ll usually find them curled up just below the soil surface, especially in late summer and early fall when they’re most active.

Various sizes of white lawn grubs nestled in soil, indicating different stages of growth.

What Damage Do Grubs Cause to Lawns?

Grubs are root feeders. They chew away at the grassroots, severing the plant from its water and nutrient supply. This results in grass that turns brown, wilts, and eventually dies—sometimes in large, irregular patches. What’s worse, raccoons, skunks, and birds may start digging up your lawn to feast on the grubs, adding even more damage.

Signs of Grub Infestation in July

In July, the beetles lay eggs in your lawn, and those eggs soon hatch into hungry grubs. While damage may not be severe yet, early detection is key. Here’s what I watch for:

• Spongy or loose turf: If your lawn feels soft underfoot or you can roll back sections of turf like a carpet, grubs are likely underneath.

• Brown patches that don’t improve with watering.

• Increased animal activity: Birds, skunks, or raccoons digging at your lawn can be a sign they’re hunting for grubs.

• Grub count test: I usually dig up a 1-square-foot section of sod about 2–4 inches deep. Finding 5–10 grubs in that space is a sign you need to take action.

Brown patch of grass caused by grub infestation in a lawn during July.

When to Apply Grub Control for Lawns

Timing is everything when it comes to grub control. July is the best month for preventive treatments—this is when grubs are newly hatched and closest to the surface, making them easier to kill.

• Preventive treatment (early to mid-July): This stops young grubs before they start feeding.

• Curative treatment (late August to early September): Best if you missed prevention and are dealing with active damage.

I always make sure to water the lawn before and after applying grub control so the product penetrates the soil effectively.

Best Grub Control for Lawn Products on the Market

Here are a few effective grub killers I’ve used or seen success with:

🔹 Preventive Grub Control:

• Scott’s GrubEx1: Contains chlorantraniliprole, ideal for preventing grub infestations with minimal impact on beneficial insects.

• BioAdvanced Season-Long Grub Control: Contains imidacloprid and gives several months of protection.

🔹 Curative Grub Control:

• Dylox (Trichlorfon): Fast-acting and good for killing mature grubs in late summer or early fall.

• Sevin Lawn Insect Granules: Effective but not as targeted—use carefully and follow safety instructions.

  
  

Organic Options for Grub Control

If you’re like me and prefer natural solutions when possible, you’ll be happy to know there are a few great organic alternatives:

• Beneficial Nematodes (Heterorhabditis bacteriophora): These microscopic worms attack and kill grubs without harming pets, people, or earthworms. I’ve had good success applying them in moist soil in early morning or late evening.

• Milky Spore Powder: Targets Japanese beetle grubs specifically. It takes longer to establish (sometimes a season or two) but provides multi-year protection.

• Neem Oil Soil Drench: Acts as a natural pesticide and growth disruptor for many soil pests including grubs.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Protecting your lawn from grubs in July is all about vigilance and timing. Whether you choose a chemical treatment or go the organic route, catching the problem early is key to avoiding major damage later in the season. I make it a habit to inspect my lawn monthly and adjust my treatment based on what I find. A healthy lawn starts from the ground up—and that means keeping grubs in check before they chew through your turf.

Let me know in the comments if you’ve dealt with grubs and what’s worked best for you. And if you’re not sure what’s damaging your lawn, I’m always happy to help troubleshoot!