Chafer Grubs
Pest · Commonly affects: Lawn grass, Ornamental grasses, Turf, Newly laid lawn, Meadow grass
Chafer grubs are the soil-dwelling young of several chafer beetles. They feed on lawn roots and can leave turf loose enough for birds, foxes and badgers to pull it apart while searching for food. Though alarming, the problem is usually localised and is best managed by supporting lawn recovery and targeting young grubs at the right time.
How to identify it
Chafer grubs are plump, creamy-white larvae held in a C-shape, with brown heads and six obvious legs near the head. They are generally 20-40 mm long when mature and are larger than vine weevil grubs. Peel back loose turf to find them among the roots. Typical signs are expanding yellow or brown patches, turf that rolls back easily, and repeated pecking or digging by birds and other wildlife.
Damage
The grubs chew grass roots, so lawns become thin, drought-prone and poorly anchored. Secondary damage can be greater than the feeding itself when birds, foxes or badgers tear up turf to reach the grubs. Young lawns and dry, sandy areas can suffer most. Healthy established turf often recovers once feeding subsides and roots regrow.
Prevention
Maintain a dense lawn by mowing appropriately, watering only during prolonged drought and repairing worn patches in early autumn or spring. Avoid excessive thatch, which can favour shallow-rooted turf. Encourage birds and other garden wildlife, accepting some natural predation where turf damage is limited. When laying a new lawn, prepare the soil carefully and inspect it for grubs before sowing or turfing.
How to manage it
Lift loose turf gently, collect visible grubs by hand and relay the turf after firming soil and watering it in. Biological nematodes can be used generically in late summer, when young grubs are near the surface and soil is moist. Protect repaired patches temporarily with netting if animals are digging them up. Overseed thin areas once grub activity has reduced and keep new grass evenly moist.
Chafer Grubs: frequently asked questions
How do I identify chafer grubs?
Chafer grubs are plump, creamy-white larvae held in a C-shape, with brown heads and six obvious legs near the head.
How do I prevent chafer grubs?
Maintain a dense lawn by mowing appropriately, watering only during prolonged drought and repairing worn patches in early autumn or spring.
How do I get rid of chafer grubs?
Lift loose turf gently, collect visible grubs by hand and relay the turf after firming soil and watering it in.
General guidance for UK home gardens and allotments, focused on prevention and non-chemical control. For a confirmed diagnosis, the RHS or a local garden centre can help. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.