10 Best Grub Killers to Save Your Lawn From Underground Pests

I’ve found the best grub killers that’ll rescue your lawn from these destructive underground pests. For immediate relief, BioAdvanced 24-Hour Grub Plus delivers rapid results within a day, while Scotts GrubEx1 provides season-long prevention with just one application. The Andersons DuoCide offers professional-grade protection against over 50 pests, and for organic solutions, St. Gabriel Organics Milky Spore works naturally for up to 15 years. Below, you’ll discover exactly which option matches your specific lawn care needs.

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Notable Insights

• BioAdvanced 24-Hour Grub Plus delivers rapid grub elimination within 24 hours, making it ideal for immediate pest control needs.
• Scotts GrubEx1 provides up to 4 months of preventative protection with one annual application for season-long grub prevention.
• St. Gabriel Organics Milky Spore offers organic, pet-safe grub control lasting up to 15 years with single application.
• Pro Grub Control features concentrated 21.4% imidacloprid formula for effective coverage of large landscape areas requiring professional-strength treatment.
• The Andersons DuoCide targets over 50 lawn pests with dual-action formula covering up to 9,000 square feet effectively.

BioAdvanced 24-Hour Grub Plus for Lawns, Insect Killer (10-Pounds)

BioAdvanced 24-Hour Grub Plus stands out as the ideal choice for homeowners who need rapid, reliable grub control across medium to large lawn areas. This ready-to-spread granular formula contains 9.3% trichlorfon, delivering exceptional results within 24 hours of application. You’ll appreciate its versatility, as it targets multiple pests including grubs, ants, and ticks across 5,000 square feet per 10-pound bag. The convenient granules work seamlessly with rotary or drop spreaders, making application straightforward for any experience level. Users consistently report fast-acting destruction of grubs and significant reductions in lawn damage, earning this product 4.4 stars from thousands of reviews.

Best For: Homeowners with medium to large lawns who need fast-acting grub control and multi-pest elimination across up to 5,000 square feet.

Pros:

• Delivers rapid results with grubs killed within 24 hours of application
• Multi-purpose formula effectively targets grubs, ants, ticks, and other lawn pests
• Easy-to-apply granules work with standard rotary or drop spreaders

Cons:

• Does not include a measuring scoop for precise application
• Requires immediate watering after application to prevent grass damage
• Not safe for pets immediately after application until properly watered in

Scotts GrubEx1 Season Long Grub Killer (5,000 sq. ft.)

When you need thorough, season-long protection against multiple lawn pests with just one application, Scotts GrubEx1 Season Long Grub Killer delivers reliable results for homeowners managing up to 5,000 square feet. This granular insecticide provides up to four months of protection, targeting grubs, armyworms, chinchbugs, and May/June beetles while helping manage Japanese beetles when applied annually. You’ll apply this preventative treatment to dry lawn areas during spring or early summer, using recommended spreader settings and watering thoroughly afterward to activate the formula. The product works by killing developing grubs before they damage your turf, making it ideal for proactive maintenance rather than active infestations.

Best For: Homeowners with up to 5,000 square feet of lawn who want proactive, season-long protection against grubs and other lawn pests with a single annual application.

Pros:

• Provides up to 4 months of protection with just one application per year
• Controls multiple pests including grubs, armyworms, chinchbugs, and May/June beetles
• Safe for people and pets once dried and easy to apply with standard lawn spreaders

Cons:

• Not effective for active infestations as it works preventatively on developing grubs
• Higher price point compared to some competitive products
• Requires precise timing in spring or early summer for optimal effectiveness

BioAdvanced Season Long Grub Control Granules (10 LB)

Large lawn owners who need extensive pest protection will find BioAdvanced Season Long Grub Control Granules particularly valuable, since this 10-pound bag covers up to 5,000 square feet of turf. You’ll target over 40 destructive insects, including grubs, ants, ticks, and chinch bugs, using the active ingredient lambda-cyhalothrin for thorough lawn protection. The ready-to-spread granules work seamlessly with rotary or drop spreaders, making application straightforward and efficient for homeowners. You can apply this treatment during spring and summer months, with up to three applications annually for sustained control. Many users report visible lawn improvements within 48 hours, demonstrating the product’s quick-acting formula and reliable performance.

Best For: Large lawn owners with 5,000 square feet or more of turf who need comprehensive protection against grubs, ants, ticks, and other destructive lawn insects with a convenient granular application system.

Pros:

• Covers extensive area (up to 5,000 sq ft) and targets 40+ destructive insects including grubs, ants, ticks, and chinch bugs
• Fast-acting formula with many users reporting visible lawn improvements within 48 hours
• Easy application with ready-to-spread granules that work with standard rotary or drop spreaders

Cons:

• Some users report lack of effectiveness against certain pests like Japanese beetles
• Limited to maximum 3 applications per year which may not provide year-round protection
• Contains chemical pesticide (lambda-cyhalothrin) which may not be suitable for organic lawn care preferences

BioAdvanced Complete Brand Insect Killer for Lawns, Granules, 20 LB

Thorough pest control becomes essential when your lawn faces multiple insect threats simultaneously, and this granular formula delivers broad-spectrum protection against over 40 destructive species. You’ll appreciate how this 20-pound coverage targets grubs, chinch bugs, mole crickets, ants, fleas, and ticks both above and below the soil surface. The granules work on contact while establishing season-long barriers that maintain effectiveness for several months after application. Fire ant control stands out particularly well, preventing new mound formations for up to three months while eliminating existing colonies. With 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 620 customers, you can apply this treatment confidently for lawn-wide protection, band treatment, or targeted spot applications.

Best For: Homeowners dealing with multiple lawn pest problems who need long-lasting, broad-spectrum insect control that works both above and below ground.

Pros:

• Targets over 40 destructive lawn insects including grubs, fire ants, fleas, ticks, and chinch bugs with both contact kill and season-long protection
• Provides up to 3 months of fire ant control while preventing new mound formations
• Versatile application options for full lawn coverage, band treatment, or spot treatment with easy-to-spread granules

Cons:

• Some users report needing multiple applications for deeper or more severe infestations
• Occasional reports of ants returning after initial treatment effectiveness wears off
• Mixed results requiring patience as some pest problems may take time to fully resolve

Pro Grub Control Concentrated Imidacloprid Insecticide (32oz)

Pro Grub Control Concentrated Imidacloprid Insecticide delivers professional-grade protection for homeowners managing extensive grub infestations across multiple landscape areas. This concentrated formula contains 21.4% imidacloprid, providing targeted control against grub larvae, Japanese beetles, aphids, and weevils that damage your turf and ornamental plants. You’ll appreciate the product’s versatility, as it offers three distinct application methods: turf treatment at 0.6 fluid ounces per 1,000 square feet, foliar spraying at 1.5 fluid ounces per 100 gallons, and soil application based on trunk diameter measurements. The 32-ounce concentrate covers significant acreage, making it cost-effective for larger properties requiring thorough pest management across trees, shrubs, and landscape ornamentals.

Best For: Homeowners with large properties or extensive grub infestations who need a professional-grade, concentrated insecticide that can treat multiple landscape areas including turf, trees, shrubs, and ornamental plants.

Pros:

• High concentration (21.4% imidacloprid) provides professional-grade effectiveness against multiple pest types including grubs, Japanese beetles, aphids, and weevils
• Versatile application methods (turf, foliar, and soil) allow treatment of various landscape areas with one product
• Large 32-ounce concentrate container covers significant acreage, making it cost-effective for larger properties

Cons:

• Requires careful measurement and mixing for different application methods, which may be complex for inexperienced users
• Higher concentration means greater risk if misapplied or overused, potentially harmful to beneficial insects
• May be excessive for small properties or minor pest problems where a ready-to-use product would be more practical

St. Gabriel Organics Milky Spore Japanese Beetle Grub Control (15 Pound)

When you’re dealing with persistent Japanese beetle infestations that return year after year, St. Gabriel Organics Milky Spore provides a remarkable long-term solution that protects your lawn for up to 15 years. This USDA-certified organic grub control targets Japanese beetle larvae specifically, using natural bacterial spores that remain active throughout all seasons and weather conditions. You’ll appreciate that this environmentally friendly treatment won’t harm your pets, beneficial insects, or wildlife while effectively eliminating grubs from your soil. The 15-pound granular formula applies easily with a spreader or by hand, requiring only one application to begin working immediately upon contact with grubs, making it an ideal choice for sustainable lawn care.

Best For: Homeowners seeking a long-term, organic solution to Japanese beetle grub problems who want effective pest control without harming pets, beneficial insects, or the environment.

Pros:

• Provides up to 15 years of protection with just one application
• USDA-certified organic and safe for pets, beneficial insects, and wildlife
• Works continuously in all weather conditions and seasons

Cons:

• Only targets Japanese beetle grubs specifically, not other lawn pests
• May take time to see full results as it works through natural bacterial action
• Higher upfront cost compared to shorter-term chemical alternatives

BioAdvanced Complete Insect Killer for Soil and Turf (32 oz)

BioAdvanced Complete Insect Killer for Soil and Turf stands out as the ideal solution for homeowners who need extensive pest control across large lawn areas. This ready-to-spray formula tackles grubs alongside army worms, ants, ticks, and 30 other outdoor pests, delivering thorough protection in a single application. You’ll see results within 24 hours, while the treatment continues protecting your soil for up to three months against recurring infestations. The 32-ounce bottle covers an impressive 5,334 square feet, making it perfect for larger properties where multiple pest problems persist throughout the growing season.

Best For: Homeowners with large properties who need comprehensive pest control that targets multiple outdoor insects including grubs, army worms, ants, ticks, and mosquitoes across extensive lawn areas.

Pros:

• Covers an impressive 5,334 square feet with a single 32-ounce bottle, making it cost-effective for large properties
• Provides long-lasting protection for up to 3 months while showing results within 24 hours of application
• Ready-to-spray formulation eliminates mixing requirements and targets over 30 different pest types in one treatment

Cons:

• May be excessive for smaller yards or targeted pest problems where broad-spectrum treatment isn’t necessary
• Chemical formulation may not be suitable for organic gardening practices or environmentally sensitive areas
• Requires careful application timing and weather conditions to ensure effectiveness and prevent runoff

The Andersons DuoCide Professional-Grade Lawn Insect Control (18 lb)

Homeowners seeking extensive pest control will find The Andersons DuoCide Professional-Grade Lawn Insect Control delivers exceptional versatility, targeting over 50 common lawn pests with a single 18-pound application. This professional-grade formula combines bifenthrin and carbaryl, two powerful active ingredients that eliminate threats both above and below your lawn’s surface. You’ll effectively control grubs, ticks, fire ants, mole crickets, and fleas with one treatment covering up to 9,000 square feet. The dual-action approach means you’re addressing surface pests like fire ants while simultaneously targeting underground grubs that damage root systems. Made in the USA, this all-encompassing solution streamlines your pest management routine.

Best For: Homeowners with large lawns up to 9,000 square feet who want comprehensive pest control that eliminates both surface and underground insects with a single professional-grade application.

Pros:

• Targets over 50 different lawn pests with dual-action formula that works above and below ground
• Single 18-pound application covers up to 9,000 square feet, making it cost-effective for large properties
• Contains professional-grade active ingredients (bifenthrin and carbaryl) for powerful pest elimination

Cons:

• Not available for purchase in California due to regulatory restrictions
• Requires careful handling due to professional-grade chemical formulation
• May be overkill for homeowners dealing with only minor or specific pest issues

Spectracide Triazicide Lawn & Landscapes Insect Killer (40 oz)

Spectracide Triazicide Lawn & Landscapes Insect Killer stands out as the ideal choice for homeowners managing extensive properties, since its 40-ounce concentrate delivers impressive coverage across up to 6,400 square feet. You’ll appreciate its gamma cyhalothrin formula, which eliminates over 260 destructive insects including grubs, chinch bugs, and armyworms that damage your lawn’s root system. The concentrate provides three months of continuous protection, targeting both surface-dwelling and underground pests that threaten your landscape’s health. You can apply this versatile solution to lawns, vegetables, fruit trees, and ornamental plants using a standard tank sprayer for thorough pest management.

Best For: Homeowners with large properties up to 6,400 square feet who need comprehensive, long-lasting insect control for lawns, gardens, and landscaping.

Pros:

• Covers up to 6,400 square feet with just 40 oz of concentrate, making it cost-effective for large areas
• Kills over 260 different insects and provides up to 3 months of continuous protection
• Works on both surface and underground pests, suitable for multiple plant types including lawns, vegetables, and fruit trees

Cons:

• Requires a separate tank sprayer for application, adding to equipment costs
• Contains gamma cyhalothrin, a synthetic pesticide that may raise concerns for organic gardeners
• Must be mixed with water according to label directions, requiring careful measurement and preparation

BONIDE PRODUCTS 60318 Annual Grub Killer, 18-Pound

The BONIDE PRODUCTS 60318 Annual Grub Killer stands out as an exceptional choice for property owners managing large lawns up to 15,000 square feet who need thorough, season-long grub protection. This granular formula delivers systemic action that lasts throughout the entire growing season, eliminating European crane fly larvae, mole crickets, and other destructive turf insects. You’ll achieve ideal results by applying this treatment between late May and mid-August, before grubs become active and eggs hatch. The product stops feeding activity quickly while providing rapid grub elimination, protecting your investment in healthy turfgrass and ornamental plantings with just one seasonal application.

Best For: Property owners with large lawns up to 15,000 square feet who need comprehensive, season-long grub control and protection against turf-destroying insects like European crane fly larvae and mole crickets.

Pros:

• Provides systemic action that lasts the entire growing season with just one application
• Covers up to 15,000 square feet per 18-pound bag, making it cost-effective for large areas
• Works quickly to stop feeding activity and kill grubs rapidly when applied at the right time

Cons:

• Requires precise timing between late May and mid-August for optimal effectiveness
• Must be applied before grubs become active, limiting flexibility in application timing
• Some customers report needing to purchase additional product for larger properties beyond the stated coverage area

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Grub Killer

When I’m helping you select the right grub killer for your lawn, there are five critical factors that’ll determine your success in eliminating these destructive pests. Understanding the active ingredient types, proper application timing methods, and coverage area requirements will guarantee you choose a product that matches your specific lawn conditions. I’ll also guide you through treatment duration considerations and safety concerns, so you can protect both your family and your grass effectively.

Active Ingredient Types

Three main categories of active ingredients form the foundation of effective grub control products, each offering distinct advantages for your lawn care strategy. Contact insecticides, including Trichlorfon and Lambda-Cyhalothrin, deliver immediate results by killing grubs upon direct contact, making them ideal for severe infestations requiring quick action. Systemic insecticides like Imidacloprid work differently, as they’re absorbed by grass roots and provide long-lasting protection when grubs feed on treated plants. Biological options, such as Milky Spore, introduce beneficial pathogens that specifically target Japanese beetle grubs while preserving helpful insects in your garden ecosystem. I recommend considering concentration levels too, since products range from 0.1% to over 21% active ingredients, directly affecting both effectiveness and application frequency for your specific lawn needs.

Application Timing Methods

Timing represents the most critical factor in successful grub control, as these lawn-damaging pests follow predictable life cycles that determine treatment effectiveness. I recommend applying grub killers during late spring to early summer, when newly hatched grubs actively feed near the soil surface. You’ll find some products work best as preventive treatments, applied several weeks before grubs typically emerge in your region. Others target existing infestations at the first signs of damage or adult beetle activity. For best results, I suggest applying treatments to dry grass, then watering thoroughly to activate the granules and move them into the root zone where grubs feed. Monitor your lawn for adult beetles, as their presence indicates prime timing for grub control applications.

Coverage Area Requirements

Coverage area calculations form the foundation of effective grub control, determining both treatment success and budget considerations for your lawn care program. I recommend evaluating products that treat between 5,000 to 15,000 square feet, selecting options that match your specific lawn dimensions. Larger coverage areas reduce the number of products you’ll need, creating significant cost savings for extensive properties while guaranteeing consistent treatment across your entire yard.

Consider how coverage area affects product efficacy, as some grub killers perform better over broader spaces for prevention rather than active infestations. I suggest measuring your lawn accurately before purchasing, accounting for treatment overlap zones that guarantee complete coverage. Choose products with coverage that slightly exceeds your lawn size, providing flexibility for thorough application without requiring additional purchases mid-treatment.

Treatment Duration Length

When selecting grub killers, understanding treatment duration becomes essential for matching your lawn’s specific needs with the product’s protective timeline. I’ve found that immediate-action products work within 24 hours to eliminate existing infestations, but they won’t provide long-term protection without additional preventative measures. Season-long formulations offer four months or more of control, requiring just one annual application for thorough coverage. You’ll need to take into account timing carefully, as some products target grubs before hatching while others kill developing larvae at various life stages. Multiple applications throughout spring and summer may be necessary with certain formulations, so I recommend choosing products that align with your lawn’s specific pest cycle and maintenance preferences.

Safety and Toxicity

Before choosing any grub killer, you’ll want to carefully evaluate safety considerations, particularly if you have children, pets, or frequent wildlife visitors in your yard. Systemic insecticides present higher toxicity risks since they’re absorbed by plants, potentially affecting pollinators and other beneficial creatures that contact treated vegetation. I recommend considering USDA-certified organic options, which provide effective grub control without harmful chemicals while remaining safe for food crops, beneficial insects, and wildlife.

Most conventional grub killers require specific reentry intervals, typically ranging from 24 hours to several days before humans or pets can safely access treated areas. Always read product labels thoroughly, as they contain essential safety instructions and environmental impact details about active ingredients, helping you make informed decisions that protect your family and local ecosystem.

Cost Per Application

Beyond safety considerations, understanding the financial investment required for effective grub control helps you make practical decisions that fit your lawn care budget. I’ve found that cost per application varies dramatically based on coverage area, with some products treating 15,000 square feet while others cover only 5,000 square feet per application. A typical 10-pound granule bag costs $20 to $50 and treats around 5,000 square feet, so I always calculate cost per square foot for accurate comparisons. Annual-use products often provide better value since they require just one seasonal application, unlike products needing multiple treatments. I also consider active ingredient potency, as more effective formulations reduce total applications needed, ultimately lowering your overall investment.

On a final note

I’ve walked you through the top grub killers available, from quick-acting treatments to season-long preventative solutions. Each product offers unique benefits, whether you’re dealing with active infestations or protecting against future damage. Remember to take into account your lawn size, timing requirements, and specific grub species when making your selection. With the right grub killer and proper application, you’ll restore your lawn’s health and prevent costly underground damage effectively.