Causal organism:
Garden Chafer (Phyllopertha horticola)
Summer Chafer (Amphimallon solstitialis)
Cock Chafer (Melolontha melolontha)
Welsh Chafer (Hoplia philanthus)
| Problem |
Chafer Grubs |
| Host Grass Types |
All turf types |
| Symptons |
Patches of dead and dying grass coupled with yellowing of the turf especially during dry periods. Most turf damage is caused by other creatures that feed on the grubs. Moles, badgers and birds are the main predators. A badger can do severe damage to any area that is infested with the grubs |
The development of the pest
- Adult Chafers are medium-sized reddish brown beetles about 13 - 15 mm long
- The adult Chafer will lay its eggs around June - July where they hatch and start feeding on the roots of the grass from July to late September
- From November onwards they burrow deep into the ground and lay dormant under the soil before moving to the surface in the spring when they emerge as beetles
- Damage is most evident in August and September (grub stage)
- Early symptoms include gradual thinning, yellowing and weakening of the grass followed by scattered, irregular dead patches
Management strategy to reduce the likelihood of attack
- Keep a look out for grub activity in August - September
- Monitor the turf in the autumn for increased bird activity and secondary damage
- Use biological nematode treatment to control the grubs when they are young and close to the soil surface
Preventative Strategy (Guidance Only)
Curative Programme (Guidance Only)
