A very common insect throughout the UK and Europe hatching in May to June – hence the name June Bug!
The adult chafer beetle does no damage to turf but the larvae or grub likes to dine on grass roots. In most occurrences the damage is minimal but if the grubs build up into large numbers then areas of your lawn can suffer damage and drying.
The most serious damage will occur when the local wildlife find that your lawn contains a few kilos of highly nutritious and protein rich larvae! Hopefully it will be just birds pecking and tugging at the loose turf because if a badger discovers them, then kiss goodbye to a large area of lawn!! Hedgehogs and foxes will also find your lawn a delicious banqueting table! So, let the birds clear the lawn of root eating grubs as quickly as possible.
If you see chafer beetles or grubs don't panic. Most lawns and gardens have a healthy number living in and around them without any discernible damage. They are part of the natural balance and make your garden a more interesting and rewarding place.
Grubs are typically around 1 to 1.5cm and have a cream coloured body with orange to brown head section. They have three pairs of quite distinct insect type legs.
If you suspect a problem peel back several patches of turf and if you have more than about 5 grubs per square foot then damage will more than likely occur. As there is no pesticide now available scarification, aeration and over seeding will be required after an attack to reduce the population and repair the lawn.