What can I do to control grubs in my lawn?

Question:

lawn damageI live on Vinalhaven island and we have been experiencing a lot of raccoon damage to lawns as they forage for something underground. I am told it is probably grubs, but I don’t know. My question is, can we do anything to control the grubs or whatever is the food source? I have tried Grubex last spring and the raccoons dug at the lawn in the fall even worse! They are doing a lot of damage, and in my nearly 40 years as a caretaker, I have never seen this.

Answer:

Anna Low, Master Gardener Volunteer, Cumberland County 2012

The photo you sent looks just like other damage we’ve seen from critters digging up lawns to feast on grubs. We have a few links with helpful information:

You’ll notice the maine.gov press release above mentions specific timing for applying any grub pesticides. We suspect your spring application might have been a little early. 

You’ll also find information about reseeding lawns in the lawn section at the UMaine Extension Garden and Yard website.