Grubs are commonplace throughout the country. They thrive in nearly every climate on earth where they can find food - and lawns provide an excellent source of grub food.

Due to the larval stage of May, Oriental, Asiatic Garden and Japanese Beetles, widespread damage can occur each year. Large, brown patches in the lawn that can be pulled up easily are usually evidence of a grub problem. To be sure, lift up a patch of the grass. If grubs are the culprits, they'll be visible. They're C-shaped, grayish-white with a brown head and may be up to one inch in length.

Grubs feed on grass roots, causing the grass to discolor and turn brown, as the roots are no longer able to supply the leaves with water and nutrients.

Life cycles vary among the different grub species, but generally, grubs migrate to the turf root zone in April to feed. In late spring through early summer, the grubs pupate and emerge from the soil as adult beetles. In summer, the adult beetles feed on trees and shrubs, and by mid-summer the females begin laying eggs in the lawn. As these eggs hatch, the larvae (grubs) begin feeding on the turf roots. The grubs migrate deep into the soil when cold weather approaches, but in the spring the cycle starts all over.

Lawn and Garden suppliers carry a variety of products that are very effective in controlling grubs. Oftanol, Dylox, Grubex, Diazinon or Dursban are excellent choices. They should be applied early April and May and again from mid-July to early September. For best results, remember to water in well.

After treatment, the damaged patches of turf may return to normal, depending on the severity of the grub problem. If, however, the turf was totally brown, it most likely will need to be replaced.