Use the “wet towel test” — soak an old towel in water, place it over the lawn overnight, and check underneath in the morning for grubs or caterpillars. Another way is to do a soapy water test;

Step 1. Source a 20ltr bucket or something similar fill with water and add a good helping of dish washing liquid.

Step 2. Mix the water and dish detergent by hand to ensure it is thoroughly mixed and bubbles appear.

Step 3. Head to the area where the damage is present and slowly pour the mixture over the affected area as well as the surrounding healthy turf surrounding the area.

Step 4. Allow the detergent and water to saturate the thatch layer and soil profile and wait approximately 5 to 10 minutes for the chewing pests to emerge. If you get a result this is confirmation that you have lawn grubs.

Note. Repeating this process several times in different areas of the lawn is also beneficial to ascertain the extent of the infestation and population of the chewing pests you may have.