How to Repair Your Lawn From Grub Damage

01 Aug How to Repair Your Lawn From Grub Damage

There’s nothing more frustrating than seeing large brown patches appear on your lawn after you’ve spent time mowing, watering, and fertilising. Often, the culprit is not poor care, but something lurking just below the surface: lawn grubs. These pests feed on grass roots, causing serious damage that can appear almost overnight.

The good news is, your lawn can bounce back with the right treatment and a solid maintenance plan. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to identify lawn grub damage, treat the problem, and help your turf recover to full health.

Identifying the Root Problem

Before you begin repairs, it’s important to confirm that lawn grubs are the cause of your turf issues. Grubs are the larvae of beetles and moths, and they typically feed underground on grass roots. In some cases, like with army worms, damage can also occur above the surface.

If you suspect grub damage, look out for:

• Soft, spongy patches of lawn that lift up easily
• Sudden browning or thinning in healthy areas
• Increased bird activity, especially magpies or ibis pecking at your grass

You can confirm an infestation with the soapy water test. Simply mix a bucket of water with dishwashing liquid and pour it over an affected area. If grubs are present, they’ll come to the surface within ten minutes.

signs of damage

Lawn grub damage often goes unnoticed until it becomes widespread. Typical signs include:

• Dead or dying patches that don’t respond to watering or fertiliser
• Grass that lifts away from the soil with little resistance
• Bare or patchy areas where grass runners have been chewed off
• Moth or caterpillar activity at dusk (particularly with army worms)

It’s easy to confuse grub damage with heat stress or nutrient deficiencies. However, the presence of grubs, birds, and uneven patchiness is a clear giveaway. Early identification can make a big difference in recovery time and cost.

Treating The Damage

Once you’ve confirmed the presence of lawn grubs, the next step is treatment. You need to eliminate the pests before you begin any repair work.

There are two main types of treatment:

• Fast-acting insecticides that provide immediate knockdown of grubs
• Preventative insecticide repellent products that protect your lawn for several months

For active infestations, choose an effective insecticide spray or granular solution that targets beetle larvae and caterpillars. Be sure to follow label directions closely and wear appropriate protective gear during application.

Watering and Fertilising

After treating for grubs, your lawn will need support to rebuild. Deep watering is the first step, helping to restore moisture and encourage root recovery. Avoid shallow and frequent watering. You should instead aim for a good soak once or twice a week.

Once your grass begins to show signs of improvement, introduce a high-quality lawn fertiliser to support regrowth. Fertiliser provides essential nutrients that help the grass repair its root system and push out new shoots. Look for a balanced formulation and apply according to the instructions.

Don’t be tempted with the idea of fertilising your lawn too soon. Give it a couple of weeks to regain some strength post-treatment before applying any products.

monitoring post treatment

Recovery doesn’t happen overnight, so it’s important to keep an eye on your lawn’s progress.

Here’s what to look for:

• Greener colour and new runner growth
• Firmer, less spongey feel underfoot
• Reduced signs of birds or pests returning

If grub activity continues, a second application of insecticide may be needed. Be sure to check for signs of weed growth as well. Thin or bare areas are more prone to weed invasion, so you may need to apply a targeted weed treatment for the lawn to prevent unwanted competition.

repairing bare or severely damaged patches

In some cases, grub damage is too extensive for natural regrowth. When this happens, patching or re-turfing sections may be the best option.

Here’s how to repair bare areas:

• Rake away dead grass and loosen compacted soil
• Add a thin layer of topsoil or lawn underlay to even out the surface
• Lay fresh turf slabs that match your existing lawn
• Press the new turf down firmly and water well

Using high-quality instant turf ensures faster recovery and a more seamless look. Seed & Turf can supply durable, drought-tolerant turf varieties suitable for your area. Whether you need a few rolls or a full replacement, we’re here to help.

Maintaining and Treating Your Lawn With Seed & Turf

Once your lawn begins to bounce back, a strong lawn care and maintenance plan will help keep grubs and other pests from returning.

Here’s what we recommend:

• Regular mowing at the right height for your grass type
• Deep, infrequent watering to promote strong root growth
• Seasonal fertilising to support year-round health
• Routine inspections for early signs of pests

If your lawn has suffered from grub damage or you need help choosing the right turf or treatments, our team is here to help. Contact us today for expert advice and tailored solutions to keep your lawn healthy.