How to Kill Garden Grubs
You may not see them, but if your garden is doing poorly and several plants have died or mole tunnels abound, you may have an infestation of grubs. During their three-year developmental life cycle, these larval forms of scarab beetles can do lots of damage during their feeding stage, which usually occurs during the summer months. Damage is more noticeable during dry periods or when plants must compete for minimal resources. However, you can control these unwelcome pests through the use of insecticides. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Diazinon, Dylox, Grub-X, Grub B Gone or similar insecticide
- Garden hose or sprinkler for watering
Instructions
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Plant your plants in well-cultivated areas that have not been in grass the previous year. Since these white worm-like pests are hard to get rid of, it's best not to let them get established. However, if you find signs of infestation -- mole tunnels, dying plants, especially some with few roots -- water the area to be treated before applying any chemicals. This will help with the absorption of the insecticide.
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Apply one of the chemicals according to package directions from June to early August, depending on the chemical used and the area of the country. This will contaminate their food supply during the months they are actively feeding.
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Water the chemicals into the garden to ensure maximum effect. Since some of the insecticides come in granular form, watering the treated area will help in their dissolution.
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Reapply if grub activity is noted -- that is, if more mole tunnels appear or more plants turn brown and have missing roots.
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Tips & Warnings
Checking your garden often for signs of moles or dying plants will help limit the infestation. Since grubs tend to attack weaker plants, proper fertilization and care of your garden will help avoid grub problems as well. Check the lawn surrounding your garden too; if your garden has grubs, your lawn may also be infested. Be patient after applying an insecticide to kill grubs; it may take several weeks for them all to die.
When you apply these chemicals, follow all directions exactly. While it may be tempting to cut the amount of insecticide applied to save money, using an incorrect amount may not kill the grubs. Keep pets and small children away from the area until all of the granular chemicals have dissolved, in order to avoid any chances of poisoning.
