What is a primary cultural control method to manage white grubs?

Avoiding watering in July and early August is a primary cultural control method to manage white grubs due to the biology of the pests and their developmental stages. White grubs are the larvae of scarab beetles, and during the summer months, especially in July and August, they are typically feeding actively in the soil. Excessive moisture from frequent watering can create optimal conditions for these grubs, promoting their growth and survival.

By withholding irrigation during the peak feeding months, turf managers can stress the grubs and reduce water availability in the soil, making the environment less conducive for the larvae to thrive. This method is beneficial not only for controlling the white grub population but also for promoting deeper root growth in turfgrass, which can improve the overall health and resilience of the lawn.

Options that suggest frequent watering, applying insecticides early, or utilizing beetle traps do not focus on the cultural practices that directly affect grub development and can sometimes lead to less effective pest management outcomes. Therefore, avoiding irrigation during critical periods is an effective cultural strategy within integrated pest management.