Poisoning grubs

[WTxMatt]

Hello! New member here and new backyard chicken dad.

I had a question pertaining to grubs. I don’t use chemicals in my yard for obvious reasons. However, I really have to do something about my grubs. I’ve been told that laundry detergent is a great way to kill grubs and fertilize the yard due to the sulfur and phosphate (I think).

Would this be dangerous for chickens that routinely eat the grass and grubs? I usually err on the side of caution but I really need to treat the yard.

 

[Shadrach]

Hello WTxMatt.
Welcome to BYC.
Why may I ask are you trying to kill the grubs? Don't your chickens eat them?

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Chickencanoe is right...I learned something today!

https://www.planetnatural.com/pest-problem-solver/lawn-pests/sod-webworm-control/

If they are NOT in your lawn, a number one grub predator is the fearsome chicken!

Chickens definitely love the adult version - the Japanese beetle.

 

[WTxMatt]

I’m going to try the nematodes! Thanks!

 

[ChickenCanoe]

It might be. Have you considered predatory nematodes?
Arbico organics has them for all sorts of pests.
https://www.arbico-organics.com/category/beneficial-nematodes

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Don’t your chickens eat all the grubs?

My chickens can't dig deep enough to get to the grubs. Perhaps the ground is too hard.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Ha! I didn’t know that. Thank you, I’ll look into it! Great idea

There are two species that target grubs. https://www.arbico-organics.com/category/pest-solver-guide-grubs-beetles

 

[WTxMatt]

My chickens can't dig deep enough to get to the grubs. Perhaps the ground is too hard.

They eat some.. but the grubs can be pretty deep and also it’s thick grass often

 

[ChickenCanoe]

I’m going to try the nematodes! Thanks!

I have to tell you it isn't an overnight thing like poison. But it is organic.
It is a good idea to educate yourself in how nematodes work to control pests.

 

[Kathy Golla]

Are the grubs in your lawn or planting beds? I haven’t found a good way to get rid of them in the lawn.