Hi! I’m in Minneapolis on a small urban lot. I have two issues I would appreciate some help with- 1. solution for a grub problem plus 2. remedy for ...
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Grub control and bee lawn seeding #948064
Asked November 03, 2026, 2:26 PM EST
Hi! I’m in Minneapolis on a small urban lot. I have two issues I would appreciate some help with- 1. solution for a grub problem plus 2. remedy for the damage.
I just realized grubs have taken out my entire front grass. While raking leaves, all the dead turf came up and exposed grubs everywhere. They are a high enough count per sq ft to warrant treatment. I’m unable to tell what kind of grub and I don’t recall seeing any problem beetles this summer. I understand I can use Milky Spore for Japanese Beetles or Grub Gone for a variety. Birds have been around eating the grubs the last couple days and I want to support a natural ecosystem. Should I use control granules now and the next few seasons per instructions, if so which do you recommend? If not, will the birds and squirrels take care of enough of them and eventually nature will balance it out?
Since my entire front yard is now bare dirt, can I put down bee lawn seed still this season? With the warmer winter expected I’m concerned a dormant seeding method isn’t possible. But maybe I’ll luck out with mild enough temps for a solid sprouting before we get any hard freeze? Either way seems risky but a mudpit all winter is also no good. I do have a large maple that hasn’t dropped leaves yet, should I seed right before leaf drop then let the leaves cover and that will help insulate?
Perhaps I am overthinking all of it Please advise!
Thank You!
Molly
Hennepin CountyMinnesota
Expert Response
Don't treat the grubs now. They are burrowing deeply for winter and won't ingest any treatment. Do let the birds and squirrels continue to eat them, though. Next summer, you can apply a preventative control between late July and mid-June. As for the bee lawn, plant seed when soil temperatures drop below 40 degrees, which is usually mid-November to mid-December. Rake up the maple leaves before you spread seed. A heavy leaf mat will smother the seeds and block essential spring sunlight. Then cast seed after the ground freezes. For detailed information on how to do this, see https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/lawns-and-landscapes-in-minnesota/planting-and-maintaining-a-bee-lawn