Grubs — the white, C-shaped larvae of beetles — can wreak havoc on lawns by feeding on roots, severing the turf’s grip on soil, and leaving patches that peel up easily.  Once the grub infestation is under control, your next challenge is helping your lawn recover. Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to repair and revitalize your turf after grub damage.

1. Confirm & Eradicate the Cause

Identify the damage

First, confirm grub damage: in affected patches, the turf can often be lifted like a loose carpet because the roots have been eaten.  Also, animals like birds, skunks or raccoons may dig up turf while hunting the grubs.

Dig up small sod squares in suspect areas (4–6 inches deep) and count grubs. If you find more than ~ 6 or more per square foot, or if damage is extensive, treatment is likely needed.

Treat the grubs

Use an appropriate grub control measure. This may be:

• Biological control: beneficial nematodes (which infect and kill grubs)
• Chemical curative insecticides applied when grubs are active near the surface
• Preventive treatments in prior seasons to prevent new infestations
• Follow label instructions carefully and apply when grubs are vulnerable (often late summer)

Once the grub population is reduced, further damage should stop.

2. Remove Dead Turf and Prepare the Soil

• Rake and clear: Remove dead grass, debris, and loose thatch. Clean the damaged patch down to soil so that new grass seed or sod can contact soil.
• Loosen compacted soil: Use a rake or garden fork to gently loosen the topsoil in the damaged patch. This helps with root penetration of new grass.
• If turf was lifted/digged up: If the turf was flipped over (by animals), moisten it to prevent the roots from drying, then roll it back into place if it’s still viable — sometimes it can re-root.

3. Seed or Sod the Bare Patches

Choose the right grass variety (same as existing lawn, or one suited to your locale) and proceed:

• Overseeding / patch seeding: Spread quality grass seed over the bare area. Lightly rake to ensure seed-to-soil contact, then press gently.
• Lay sod patches: Cut sod to size and press into place ensuring good contact with soil.
• Topdress with light compost/soil mix: A thin layer of compost or topsoil over seed helps protect it, retain moisture, and provide nutrients.

4. Water and Protect the New Grass

• Frequent, light watering: Keep the topsoil continuously moist (not waterlogged) until seeds germinate or sod establishes.
• Avoid foot traffic: Minimize walking or stress on the new patch until the grass roots are strong (4-6 weeks).
• Mulch gently (optional): In some climates, a straw mulch can help retain moisture and reduce erosion, but avoid smothering the new grass.

5. Fertilize Wisely & Maintain Lawn Health

• Apply starter fertilizer: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer suitable for new grass to give it a nutrient boost (especially nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium).
• Avoid overfertilizing: Too much nitrogen can burn the tender new seedlings.
• Mow at proper height: Once the new grass is ready to mow, do so at a higher height to reduce stress.
• Improve soil & rooting strength: Periodic aeration, adding organic matter, and keeping a healthy watering and mowing regime help the lawn recover and resist future damage.

l  6. Monitor & Prevent Future Infestations

• Scout periodically: In future seasons, dig small test patches to check for grubs before damage appears.
• Maintain a resilient lawn: Healthy lawns (dense turf, good root systems) tolerate moderate grub pressure better.
• Preventive treatments (if needed): Based on local advice, you might apply preventive grub controls in seasons ahead.
• Encourage natural predators: Birds, beneficial insects, and soil organisms can help keep grub levels in check.

Repairing grub damage is a two-stage task: first eliminate the grub threat, then rebuild the grass. With timely treatment, good soil preparation, quality seed or sod, consistent watering, and proper fertilization, most lawns can recover to full health within one or two growing seasons. Vigilance and preventative care will help you avoid repeating the problem.