Root-Eating Pests in St. Augustine: Likely Grubs — Go Biological

Identify the Pest

• Chinch bugs — suck sap, not roots.
• Armyworms/sod webworms — eat blades/stems.
• Mole crickets — some root feeding.
• Grubs — larvae of beetles, voracious root eaters. Population explosions happen when natural predators are killed by chemicals.

Biological Solution: Beneficial Nematodes

Gardens Alive! "Grub Patch Lawn Repair Kit" — Heterorhabditis bacteriophora nematodes parasitize grubs. Includes grass seed and mulch. Apply per instructions; reapply in a few months.

Patience Required

Problem developed over time; solution takes months. Avoid chemicals that restart the cycle.

Resource

Gardens Alive! Grub Kit