In Texas, grub infestations are unfortunately extremely common. Some female beetles in our state lay their eggs in lawns, and when the larvae hatch, they start eating the roots of your grass, which can cause serious damage to your lawn. If you suspect your lawn is suffering from a grub infestation, you should watch out for some signs that likely indicate your lawn is infested with grubs. If your lawn feels spongy when you walk on it, if you notice an increased animal presence on your lawn, if you see brown patches starting to pop up on your lawn, or if you actually see a bunch of grubs on your lawn, then you're likely dealing with a grub infestation. Keep reading to learn more about each warning flag!


1. A spongy lawn that lifts like a carpet can signal a grub infestation.

Patch of lawn pulling up like carpet in Rowlett, TX.

If you suspect your lawn is suffering from a grub infestation, you can test this theory by walking on your turf. If it is infested with grubs, your lawn will feel spongy and peculiar under your shoes. It may even lift back like a carpet, rolling up to reveal the soil below.

This happens because the grubs eat the roots of your grass, detaching the lawn from the soil below. As the grubs eat, they essentially sever the foundation holding your lawn to the ground, so it will feel strange under your feet.


2. An increased animal presence on your lawn can indicate a grub infestation.

Raccoon found in lawn in Rock Wall, TX.

The grubs in your lawn serve as an excellent food source for small animals looking to find a quick bite. So, if you notice raccoons and birds poking holes in your lawn, there's a good chance they are digging around to find food — in this case, grubs.

In Texas, it's normal to see a few critters here and there. However, if the animal presence is greater than usual, that could indicate a grub infestation. Keep an eye out for holes in your turf, too, because the animals will dig to eat.


3. Brown patches can suggest grub damage.

Brown patch due to a grub infestation in Rose Hill, TX.

If your lawn is suffering from a grub infestation, the color scheme outside your property may shift as brown patches begin to appear on your lawn. Discoloration may occur as the grubs chew on the roots of your grass, severing the plant's lifeline to resources and nutrients. The grub damage can cause the grass to start to perish, losing its color and vitality.

Brown patches can appear if your lawn is suffering from a disease. Call a professional to determine whether a grub infestation or another condition is causing the patches.


4. If you see grubs, it could indicate your lawn is infested with them.

Grub crawling through a lawn in Garland, TX.

If you believe your lawn is swarming with grubs, it might be time to dig in the dirt outside. To find grubs, go to an area where you suspect the grubs are hiding. Then, with a shovel, dig a small hole. If you have a grub infestation, you will see tons of little white grubs slithering around in the soil.

Here's a general rule to help you out: If you see 10 or more grubs in a 1 square-foot area, your lawn is probably infested. Unfortunately, a grub infestation is a very serious condition, and it could damage your lawn and cause your grass to perish. So, if you spot grubs, you should call in professionals to get rid of them right away!


Call us today to schedule our grub control service!

Grub infestations are incredibly serious because the insects can eat through the roots of your grass, causing extensive damage to your lawn. So, if you're dealing with a grub infestation, it's important to reach out to us right away so we can eliminate them from your property. Call us at (972) 521-6227 to schedule our grub control service. At Arboreal Lawn & Landscape, we offer both preventative and curative treatments, depending on your needs. We service Rockwall, Wylie, Rowlett, and nearby areas in Texas.