When it comes to lawn health, grub control is the unsung hero of late spring maintenance.

If you want a lush, green lawn this summer, grubs are an underground threat you can’t afford to ignore. These small, white larvae may seem harmless, but don’t let their size fool you. In late summer and early fall, they feast on the roots of grass, causing long-term damage that can take months to fix. Fortunately, there’s a way to stop them before they start.

HillSide Lawn Service specializes in effective, environmentally-conscious grub control made for the unique conditions of Mid-Atlantic lawns. If you live in Maryland, Delaware, or parts of Pennsylvania, here are six things you need to know right now, because late spring is the prime time for prevention.

1. Grubs are more destructive than most homeowners realize.

Grubs are the immature larvae of beetles, most commonly the Japanese beetle in this region. As they mature, they burrow into the soil and damage grass root systems, which weakens your turf’s ability to absorb water and nutrients. The damage isn’t just cosmetic—grub infestations can lead to widespread dead spots, poor soil health, and even turf loss that requires costly reseeding or sodding.

2. You might not see the grubs, but your lawn will show the signs.

Because they live underground, grubs often go unnoticed until the damage is already done. Watch for:

• Patches of brown or wilting grass, especially in late summer or early fall
• Grass that pulls up easily, similar to a loose carpet
• Birds, raccoons, skunks or dogs digging up your yard (they’re after the grubs)
• Dead turf with little or no root structure underneath

If you notice any of these signs, take action quickly.

3. Well-timed preventative treatments are your best defense.

HillSide monitors the seasonal grub cycle closely and applies preventative treatments in late spring through early summer—typically in May and June—before they hatch and begin feeding. Our highly effective, eco-friendly products offer season-long protection with just one properly timed application per year. This proactive approach stops grubs before they cause damage, so you save time, money and the hassle of lawn repairs. Plus, our certified technicians use responsible application methods that prioritize safety and environmental health.

4. If grubs have already invaded, curative treatments can help.

If you’re dealing with an active infestation, which usually occurs from August through October, HillSide offers curative treatments designed to eliminate grubs and prevent further damage. These solutions work quickly to reduce the grub population and lawn repair services can help restore damaged areas. While curative treatments are effective, they’re most beneficial when used promptly. Early intervention minimizes long-term damage and helps your lawn recover more easily.

5. Healthy lawns are more resistant to grub damage.

Grubs tend to thrive in lawns that are already stressed or thin. That’s why overall lawn health plays an important role in prevention. A dense, well-maintained lawn is more resilient and less likely to suffer significant damage. Taking steps like proper mowing, watering, aeration, and fertilization help create an environment where your turf can better withstand threats. And if grubs do show up, a healthy lawn has a much better chance of bouncing back quickly.

6. Grub control is especially important in the Mid-Atlantic.

In Maryland, Delaware, and much of Pennsylvania, the climate creates ideal conditions for grubs to thrive. Warm, humid summers and mild falls mean longer feeding periods and faster reproduction cycles for beetles. That’s why our region often sees higher-than-average grub activity—making preventative care even more important. HillSide Lawn Service has deep experience with Mid-Atlantic lawns and knows how to tailor treatments for our region’s unique needs. That deep local knowledge, paired with science-backed products and techniques, makes us your go-to partner for grub control and overall lawn care.

A grub infestation can undo months of hard work in your yard, but with just one treatment, you can prevent the problem before it begins. Whether you’ve seen signs of grubs before or want to be proactive this spring, HillSide Lawn Service has you covered.

Now is the time to act! Contact HillSide today at 410.399.2207 or Hillsidelawn.com to schedule your preventative grub control treatment and protect your lawn all summer long.

About HillSide Lawn Service: Since 1994, HillSide Lawn Service has offered expert lawn care, including aeration and overseeding and tree and shrub care. With a focus on sustainable, science-based methods and personalized service, HillSide is the trusted source for creating green, healthy lawns throughout Maryland, Delaware and parts of Pennsylvania. For more information or to request a free estimate, visit www.hillsidelawn.com or call 410-399-2207.