2020: It's the gift that keeps on giving

 

It is not surprising, with the swarms of Japanese Beetle we saw last summer that we'd see an increase of grub activity in the fall, and now into the spring of 2021.

Normally, our spring aeration schedule is minimal as we have moved most to the fall for the betterment of the lawn. But not this year.

This year I'm seeing more devastation in need of recovery with aeration and seed. I'm seeing more raccoons and skunks digging. I'm seeing lawns in serious need of reclamation.

So, what to do about these turf-wreckers?

One way to deter further damage is to purchase Coyote Urine Pellets (raccoons) or Fox Urine Pellets (skunks) and trick your unwanted vermin into believing  a larger predator is near. Follow the label of the product for best results.

Once digging has ceased and reparation is underway, you might need to consider a grub application. There are two methods currently available: nematodes---best applied as a liquid application from mid August to mid October---or Grub Gone---applied as a granular end of May through July.

Which ever method you choose, be sure to consult the label before applying the product to your lawn.

With Japanese Beetle, you can make nicotine tea by crumpling a pack of cigarettes into a pail of water to steep for a couple of hours. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and apply to all plants affected by Japanese Beetle, late June through July, or when the insect is active. The nicotine is a natural insect repellent.

Pheromone Traps  also work well to help cull the population of the destructive insect.

With everything these critters and insects have given you, isn't it time you gave some back?