How can you identify damage caused by white grubs in a lawn?

Identifying damage caused by white grubs in a lawn is primarily done by physical inspection of the turf. Lifting the grass up allows you to observe the root system and the presence of grubs beneath the soil surface. When you pull back a section of grass, you can see if the roots are damaged, which is a strong indicator of white grub infestation. These pests feed on the roots of the grass, leading to poor root development and the inability of the grass to absorb nutrients and water effectively.

While other indicators, like yellowing of blades, wilting of leaves, or increased pest activity, might suggest some form of stress or pest presence, they do not specifically confirm the presence of white grubs in the soil. The most definitive method to assess whether white grubs are causing damage is by conducting the lift test, which reveals both the condition of the grass and any grubs that may be present below the surface. This hands-on approach provides the best evidence for diagnosing white grub damage.