Return to typical, rainless conditions could change the health of the turfgrass very quickly. It is possible to check turfgrass for white grub damage before it becomes severe and noticeable. First, check your records or memory for the location of damage in previous years. Then consider areas where masked chafers are most frequently seen such as along sidewalks, driveways and streets and at the outside edge of the light thrown by a street light or yard light. Beginning in mid August look for grubs in the soil in these ares by slicing a square from the turf with a knife or spade and pulling it up.
Several insecticides are available for white grub control.
All must be carefully applied according to label directions and thoroughly watered in. Liquid insecticide sprays for white grubs must be watered in immediately before the spray can dry on the grass. Granule insecticides must also be watered in to be effective against grubs, but the demand for immediate irrigation is lessened. There are several restrictions with each product, so read and follow label directions very carefully. Iowa State University , Ames, Iowa.