Which pest's damage includes thinning and wilting with turf that may pull apart easily?

Which pest's damage includes thinning and wilting with turf that may pull apart easily?

• A. Chinch bugs
• B. Root-knot nematodes
• C. White grubs
• D. Sting nematodes

Answer: (C)

Damage from white grubs comes from larvae feeding on grass roots. When roots are eaten or damaged, the plant can’t take up water and nutrients effectively, so the turf thins and wilts, especially in heat or drought. The root system becomes so compromised that the sod lifts or pulls apart easily, leaving a loose, spongy mat of roots and soil. That combination of visible thinning and a turf that can be pulled up with little effort is a classic sign of grub damage. By digging a small area and looking for white, C-shaped grubs feeding on the roots, you can confirm the issue and decide on grub management.

Damage from white grubs comes from larvae feeding on grass roots. When roots are eaten or damaged, the plant can’t take up water and nutrients effectively, so the turf thins and wilts, especially in heat or drought. The root system becomes so compromised that the sod lifts or pulls apart easily, leaving a loose, spongy mat of roots and soil. That combination of visible thinning and a turf that can be pulled up with little effort is a classic sign of grub damage. By digging a small area and looking for white, C-shaped grubs feeding on the roots, you can confirm the issue and decide on grub management.