Grubs are small, silent, and hungry—and they’re Central Indiana’s #1 threat to a healthy lawn. Here’s how to stop them before they destroy your turf.
When Indiana homeowners hear the word “grubs,” the reaction is almost always negative—and for good reason. These tiny pests are some of the most destructive lawn invaders we deal with at GreenLawn by Design. While a healthy lawn can tolerate a few grubs, neglected or untreated lawns are at high risk of severe damage. What makes grubs especially dangerous is how quietly they work. Often, the damage is done before you ever see a brown patch or soft spot.
Let’s walk through what grubs really are, how they operate, and—most importantly—how to stop them from turning your beautiful yard into a patchy mess.
What Are Grubs?
Grubs are the larvae of beetles, commonly Japanese beetles, European chafers, or Asiatic
garden beetles—all active right here in Central Indiana. Grubs are easily recognized by their
white, C-shaped bodies. Despite their innocent appearance, they are highly destructive when
feeding on the roots of your grass.
The Grub Life Cycle
Understanding the timing of the grub’s life stages helps explain when and why your lawn is most vulnerable:
- Early Summer: Beetles lay eggs in your lawn
- Late Summer: Eggs hatch into grubs and begin feeding on grassroots
- Fall: Grubs burrow deeper to overwinter
- Spring: Grubs return to the surface and resume feeding
- Late Spring/Early Summer: They pupate and emerge as adult beetles—starting the cycle all over again It’s the late summer feeding frenzy that causes the most visible and lasting damage.
Signs of a Grub Infestation
Grubs often go unnoticed—until your lawn starts suffering. Here’s what to watch for:
- Spongy turf that lifts like a carpet
- Increased bird or animal activity
- Brown patches or dead grass, especially in late summer
Note: These symptoms can sometimes resemble other issues like drought or disease. It’s best to have a professional inspection to confirm grub activity
Grub Prevention Is Key
At GreenLawn by Design, we’ve spent the last 20 years helping homeowners in Carmel, Westfield, Zionsville, Fishers, and across Hamilton County fight back against grub infestations.
While a healthy lawn can usually tolerate a few grubs per square foot, the safest and most effective approach is preventative treatment—especially given how unpredictable grub populations can be from year to year.
Best Time for Preventive Treatment: Mid June through late July—before the eggs hatch and the damage begins.
Already Seeing Grub Damage?
If you’ve already noticed soft spots, brown patches, or an uptick in wildlife digging up your
yard—it’s not too late. We offer curative treatments that target active grub infestations and
stop the damage from spreading further.
Serving Central Indiana Lawns with Proven Solutions
Whether you’re looking to prevent grub problems or fix damage already done, GreenLawn by Design is here to help.
We’re a veteran-owned, locally operated company with 20 years of experience caring for Indiana lawns. We don’t just treat symptoms—we offer expert diagnosis, science-backed solutions, and a team that truly knows and loves the community we serve.
Ready to Protect Your Lawn from Grubs?
Call or text 317-804-8088 today. Let’s stop the problem before it takes root.
GreenLawn by Design
Serving Hamilton County Since 2004
Veteran. Local. Trusted. Lawn Proud.