White grubs are the larvae of beetles. The larvae all have six
strong legs near the head, and are white. They vary in other
characteristics such as size, head color, and hair patterns on
the body. These grubs feed on roots of various plants. Your
garden plants, lawn and even potted plants can be attacked by
grubs. In general, white grubs have a one or two year life
cycle, depending on the type of grub. The following describes a
one year life cycle. Spring - The grubs are fully grown larvae
and are actively feeding. Summer - The grubs turn into pupae and
pupate into beetles. This generally occurs around June in the
northern US and Canada. The beetles only live for about a week,
mating and laying eggs. These eggs hatch a few weeks later. Fall
- The new grubs feed until temperatures drop and they burrow
deep in the soil to avoid freezing, and emerge the following
spring. Many grubs only cause minor damage and control
strategies are not required. There are a few grubs, like
European Chafer, that commonly cause ex