Unwelcome Guests: The Lawn Pests Crashing Your Yard
No one wants to see their lawn damaged by uninvited pests. Lawn grubs and other insects can quickly turn healthy turf into a patchwork of brown, thinning or bare areas. The good news is that early detection, the right treatment and regular lawn care can help get your grass back on track.
Help your lawn stand up to pests
A healthy, well-maintained lawn is better equipped to recover from pest damage. Give it the best possible defence by:
- Mowing regularly without scalping the grass
- Watering deeply when conditions are dry
- Feeding during periods of active growth
- Removing excess thatch where pests may shelter
- Encouraging birds and beneficial insects in the garden
These simple habits help maintain strong growth and make it easier to spot changes before serious damage develops.
When are lawn pests most active?
Many damaging lawn insects become more active as the weather and soil warm. In much of Australia, lawn grub damage is most commonly noticed between spring and early autumn, particularly after warm, wet conditions.
If your lawn has experienced pest problems before, keep a close eye on it from September through to March. Check the lawn regularly rather than relying on a fixed treatment date, as pest activity can vary with your location, weather and lawn type.
Signs lawn pests may be active
Pests often begin feeding before the damage becomes obvious. Watch for:
- Brown or rapidly expanding dead patches
- Grass that feels loose or spongy underfoot
- Turf that lifts easily because the roots have been damaged
- Chewed or missing grass blades
- Increased bird activity on the lawn
- Moths hovering over the grass
Brown patches can also be caused by heat, poor watering, lawn disease or pet urine, so check the affected area carefully before applying an insect treatment.
What to do if you find lawn grubs
If you confirm lawn grubs or other damaging insects are present, treat the affected lawn promptly using a product labelled for the pest you have identified.
Scotts Lawn Builder™ Lawn Grub + Insect Slow Release Fertiliser controls common lawn grubs and insect pests while providing slow-release nutrition to help feed and green the lawn.
Apply the product evenly and strictly follow the pack directions, application rate and safety instructions. Do not apply extra product, and wait at least three weeks after treatment before deciding whether another application is required.
Helping your lawn recover
Once the pests are under control, focus on supporting healthy regrowth. Continue appropriate watering and mowing, rake away dead material if necessary, and repair bare areas once conditions are suitable.
Severe pest damage may take time to recover, but catching the problem early and maintaining good lawn care will give your grass the best chance to fill back in.
