Can my lawn recover after grub damage?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.With the right recovery techniques, your lawn can absolutely recover from grub damage. I have saved dozens of devastated lawns using these techniques. The key is to reseed them immediately and water consistently. If the damage is ignored, it will lead to soil erosion and weed invasion. Start the recovery immediately after the grubs are eliminated to see the best results.
Debris Removal
- Clear dead grass sections with a thatch rake
- Expose 2-3 inches of bare soil for seeding
- Discard infected roots to prevent disease spread
Quality Seeding
- Choose seed matching your existing grass type
- Apply Scotts® EZ Seed® for mulch protection
- Use spreader at manufacturer's recommended rate
Water Management
- Water lightly 3 times daily for 5-7 minutes
- Use oscillating sprinklers for even coverage
- Maintain consistent soil moisture without puddling
Delayed Fertilization
- Wait until new grass reaches 3 inch height
- Apply slow-release nitrogen fertilizer
- Avoid burning tender roots with early feeding
Steer clear of typical recuperation mistakes like overwatering or early traffic. New seedlings drown in wet soil, and the dry spot prevents them from growing. I use flags on the recovery areas to avoid needless damage. Patience will be rewarded with a denser, healthier area than that which existed before the infestation.
Please keep track of progress using the weekly check system I use. Take a photograph of the same place every week, ideally on Saturdays, to illustrate the growth. Measure blade height and density. If the recovery stops, investigate the compaction of the soil or possible drainage issues. Sometimes a simple aeration will cure those hidden spots.
Prevent future problems with integrated management practices. I apply nematodes yearly in the area of concern and mow at a height of 4" for grass health. Healthy turfgrass has more resistance to grubs than stressed lawns. Ultimately, these management practices yield turf that possesses a natural resilience.
Read the full article: Effective Lawn Grub Treatment Guide
