Chafer Grub

Scientific Name: Phyllopertha horticola

Of the 5 species of chafer grub living under turf in the British Isles, the garden chafer is probably the most common.

This grub is the larval stage of the May Bug (Melolontha melolontha) and will again cause widespread damage to lawns. In the most serious of cases, the roots of a lawn can be so seriously damaged that the turf can be rolled up like a carpet.

Other than the appearance and health of the turf deteriorating, a good indication of the existence of both leatherjackets and chafer grubs is the congregating of birds on the lawn, digging into the turf to feed on the pests, although this is not a satisfactory control method.

If you think you may have an infestation of either leatherjackets or chafer grubs, call your local GreenThumb operator who will be able to confirm this for you.

There are other pests that you may come across, and your local operator will be able to advise you accordingly.

You can find out more about the chafer grub in our comprehensive guide (PDF format)