Nematodes: An effective grub control!
Once considered just a plant pest, nematode species have been found that prey on a variety of insect pests. They travel through the soil until encountering their prey. Then they enter the grub through its natural openings and release an intestinal bacterium inside the grub. The bacteria kills the grub within 48 hours and then the nematode feeds on the carcass for a while before reproducing and thus releasing more nematodes into the soil.
Nematodes are generally purchased in a dry formulation that is mixed with water and sprayed over the area. As these are living creatures you want to be sure that the nematodes you purchase are not too old. Ask the retailer how long they have been on the shelf as they are good for up to 12 months. They need to be reapplied each spring to maintain a high enough population in the soil for effective control.