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10 Best Insecticide Grub Killers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Ortho BugClear Lawn Insect Killer1, Kills Ants, Spiders, Ticks, Fleas, Armyworms and Grubs, Treats up to 16,500 sq. ft., 10 lb.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,392
Active Ingredient
Residual Effect

Most important from
13753 reviews

Active Ingredient
Bifenthrin, the active ingredient, is a highly effective insecticide used by professionals and essential for controlling various lawn pests.
Residual Effect
One application lasts the whole season, making it a cost-effective solution.

The Ortho BugClear Lawn Insect Killer1 is a versatile insecticide that targets a wide range of lawn pests including ants, spiders, ticks, fleas, grubs, beetles, and armyworms. It comes in granular form, which makes it easy to apply using a Scotts Spreader. Users will appreciate that this product covers a large area of up to 16,500 square feet, making it suitable for sizable lawns and gardens.

One of the standout features is its ability to provide up to 6 months of protection against ants, although it does exclude certain types such as pharaoh, carpenter, and harvester ants. This extended control can save users from frequent reapplications, adding to its convenience. Additionally, it is suitable for use on lawns, ornamental plants, home perimeters, flower beds, and specified vegetable plants, offering flexibility in its application. However, users should ensure they water the area after application to activate the granules effectively.

In terms of safety, it is important to follow the instructions closely to avoid any potential harm to pets or humans. While the product is effective against a broad spectrum of insects, it has a residual environmental impact, which might be a concern for eco-conscious users. The Ortho BugClear Lawn Insect Killer1 is a reliable choice for those dealing with various lawn pests.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,392
Active Ingredient
Residual Effect

Most important from
13753 reviews

Active Ingredient
Bifenthrin, the active ingredient, is a highly effective insecticide used by professionals and essential for controlling various lawn pests.
Residual Effect
One application lasts the whole season, making it a cost-effective solution.
#2

Scotts GrubEx1 Season Long Grub Killer, Protects Lawns Up to 4 Months, 5,000 sq. ft., 14.35 lbs.

Rating
9.8
Residual Effect

Most important from
11405 reviews

Residual Effect
This product has been doing precisely what it claims to do... get those grubs.

Scotts GrubEx1 Season Long Grub Killer is a granular insecticide that uses Chlorantraniliprole as its active ingredient to target grubs and other lawn-damaging insects such as caterpillars, chinchbugs, and beetles. One of its notable strengths is its long-lasting effectiveness, providing protection for up to 4 months with just one application. This product is suitable for large lawns, as one 14.35 lb. bag can cover up to 5,000 sq. ft. It is designed to be applied to a dry lawn in the spring or early summer, which is convenient for seasonal lawn maintenance schedules.

However, the granular form requires careful application to ensure even coverage. Safety-wise, it’s important to follow the instructions closely, especially if you have pets or children who play on the lawn. While the product is effective, its environmental impact should be considered, as it involves chemicals that might affect the surrounding ecosystem if not used properly. This product is best suited for homeowners with larger lawns who are looking for a long-term, once-per-season solution to grub and insect control.

Rating
9.8
Residual Effect

Most important from
11405 reviews

Residual Effect
This product has been doing precisely what it claims to do... get those grubs.
#3

Spectracide Concentrate Triazicide Lawn & Landscapes Insect Killer, 40 oz, Black

Rating
9.6
Application Method
Residual Effect

Most important from
16725 reviews

Application Method
Sprinkling it around the house perimeter is a powerful method to eliminate fire ant hills and various bugs.
Residual Effect
While it performs well, reapplication might be needed every two months instead of three, as some users hoped for longer-lasting results.

The Spectracide Concentrate Triazicide Lawn & Landscapes Insect Killer is designed for outdoor use around the home and promises to control over 260 lawn-damaging insects for up to 3 months. Its active ingredient, Gamma Cyhalothrin, is effective for killing pests like ants, crickets, chinch bugs, and armyworms. With a coverage area of up to 6,400 square feet, it is suitable for large lawns and landscapes.

Users need to mix it with water and apply it as directed on the label. Once the treated area is dry, it is safe for children and pets to re-enter, which is a significant safety advantage. The product enjoys high customer ratings and is popular in the Patio, Lawn & Garden category, being ranked #3 in Insect & Pest Repellent Spray Concentrates.

However, potential users should be aware of the environmental impacts associated with insecticides containing chemicals like Gamma Cyhalothrin. While it is effective in pest control, it may pose risks to non-target organisms and should be used responsibly. Additionally, the product does not provide immediate results and might require some time before its full effects are noticeable. It is a potent solution for those dealing with significant insect problems in their lawns but should be used with care considering its chemical nature.

Rating
9.6
Application Method
Residual Effect

Most important from
16725 reviews

Application Method
Sprinkling it around the house perimeter is a powerful method to eliminate fire ant hills and various bugs.
Residual Effect
While it performs well, reapplication might be needed every two months instead of three, as some users hoped for longer-lasting results.

Buying Guide for the Best Insecticide Grub Killers

Choosing the right insecticide or grub killer is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn or garden. The right product will effectively eliminate pests without causing harm to your plants, pets, or the environment. To make an informed decision, you need to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your specific needs. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting an insecticide or grub killer.
Active IngredientThe active ingredient is the chemical component that targets and kills the pests. This is important because different active ingredients are effective against different types of insects. Common active ingredients include Imidacloprid, Chlorantraniliprole, and Bifenthrin. If you are dealing with a specific type of pest, such as grubs, you will want to choose a product with an active ingredient known to be effective against that pest. For general insect control, a broad-spectrum insecticide may be more appropriate.
Application MethodThe application method refers to how the insecticide or grub killer is applied to your lawn or garden. This can include granular, liquid, or spray forms. Granular products are often easier to apply and can provide long-lasting protection, while liquid and spray forms may offer quicker results. Your choice will depend on your preference for ease of use and the specific needs of your garden. For example, if you need to treat a large area quickly, a spray might be more convenient.
Coverage AreaCoverage area indicates how much ground a single package of the product can treat. This is important to ensure you purchase enough product to cover your entire lawn or garden. Coverage is usually measured in square feet or acres. If you have a small garden, a product with a smaller coverage area will suffice, whereas larger lawns will require a product that can cover more ground. Always measure your area before purchasing to ensure you get the right amount.
Residual EffectThe residual effect refers to how long the insecticide or grub killer remains effective after application. This is crucial for ongoing pest control. Products with a longer residual effect will provide extended protection, reducing the need for frequent reapplication. If you are looking for long-term control, choose a product with a longer residual effect. For immediate but short-term results, a product with a shorter residual effect may be sufficient.
SafetySafety is a critical consideration, especially if you have pets, children, or edible plants in your garden. Some insecticides can be harmful if ingested or if they come into contact with skin. Look for products that are labeled as safe for use around pets and children, or those that are approved for use on edible plants if you are treating a vegetable garden. Always follow the manufacturer's safety instructions to minimize any risks.
Environmental ImpactThe environmental impact of an insecticide or grub killer refers to how it affects the surrounding ecosystem. Some products can be harmful to beneficial insects, birds, and aquatic life. If you are concerned about the environment, look for eco-friendly or organic options that are designed to minimize harm to non-target species. These products are often labeled as such and may use natural ingredients to control pests.

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