9 Best Garden Grub Killers 2025 in the United States

The Scotts GrubEx1 Season Long Grub Killer is a solid choice for homeowners looking to protect their lawns from grubs and other pests. It contains granules that are easy to apply, especially when used with Scotts spreaders. One application in the spring or early summer can cover up to 10,000 square feet, providing up to 4 months of protection.

This makes it quite efficient in terms of both labor and coverage area. The product is not only effective against grubs but also targets a variety of other insects like armyworms, sod webworms, chinch bugs, and beetles, which can be advantageous for comprehensive lawn care.

While the product is highly effective in preventing root and turf damage caused by insects, it would be beneficial to check the specific active ingredient and any related safety information to ensure it aligns with your environmental and pet safety preferences.

Ortho BugClear Lawn Insect Killer is a versatile product in the garden-grub-killers category, designed to address a variety of insect issues including ants, spiders, ticks, fleas, grubs, and more. One of its primary strengths is its impressive coverage area, effectively treating up to 16,500 square feet, which is ideal for larger lawns or gardens. The application method involves using a Scotts Spreader, making it relatively straightforward to apply, though it requires an additional tool if you don't already possess one. The product comes in a granular form, which is typically easy to spread and manage.

Another significant benefit is the long-term control it offers, providing up to 6 months of protection against certain ants, although it does exclude some types like pharaoh, carpenter, and harvester ants. This residual effect can save users from the hassle of frequent reapplications.

A notable consideration is the safety aspect. While effective, it's important to understand how it affects pets and wildlife that may come into contact with treated areas. Users should ensure the insecticide is properly watered in and the area is dry before allowing pets or wildlife to return to avoid any adverse effects. In terms of environmental impact, like many chemical insecticides, there may be concerns, so it might not be the first choice for eco-conscious users. The product is manufactured by The Scotts Company LLC, indicating general satisfaction with its performance.

The ST. Gabriel Organics Milky Spore Granular Natural Bacteria Japanese Beetle Grub Killer is a garden product designed to help control grub infestations in lawns and gardens. It uses Milky Spore, a natural bacteria, as its active ingredient to target and kill Japanese beetle grubs. This makes it an eco-friendly option for those looking to manage pests without resorting to harsh chemicals.

One of its standout features is the long-lasting protection it offers; a single application can provide up to 10 years of effective control, which is a huge plus for busy gardeners who prefer low-maintenance solutions. Additionally, it's safe for pets, children, and beneficial insects, aligning well with the need for products that promote a balanced ecosystem and are gentle on the environment. Application is straightforward, thanks to its granular form that can be easily applied using a lawn spreader.

This product also contributes to the health of your lawn by eliminating grubs that cause damage, leading to thicker and healthier grass growth. However, the product's effectiveness is specifically geared towards Japanese beetle grubs, so if you have other types of grubs or pests, this may not be the best fit. Additionally, some users might find the upfront cost higher compared to other chemical-based grub killers. This product is best suited for those who are looking for a long-term, environmentally friendly solution to maintain a healthy lawn free from Japanese beetle grubs.