Larvae hatch and feed on turfgrass roots, with damage usually appearing in mid August and possibly continuing through the fall. Annual White Grub is the most serious turfgrass pest in Illinois. Grubs feed on turfgrass roots, that will damage and can kill the grass. Grub damage appears as brown areas and when enough feeding damage has occurred, lawns may be rolled up like carpeting. Moles, skunks, and birds often dig for the larvae and also damage the lawn.
Grub damage can vary from year to year.
During dry summers, grubs may be more concentrated in well-watered lawns. During wet summers, grub damage may not appear at all. It is important to check for the presence of grubs before deciding if treatment is warranted. Controls should be directed at young and newly hatched grubs. Contact your county Extension office for current pesticide controls.