Scotts GrubEx (Chlorantraniliprole)

Overview

Scotts GrubEx uses chlorantraniliprole, a bee-safe insecticide that prevents grub damage by killing Japanese beetle, European chafer, and other white grub larvae before they can damage grass roots.

How It Works

Chlorantraniliprole is ingested by grub larvae as they feed on grass roots. It disrupts muscle function, causing paralysis and death. The active ingredient has a long residual in soil, providing season-long protection from a single application.

Timing Is Critical

Apply when GDD reaches 300-500, not by calendar date. This timing targets the period when adult beetles are laying eggs, ensuring the product is active in the soil when newly hatched larvae begin feeding. Water in with 0.5 inches of irrigation or rain within 24 hours of application.

Preventive vs. Curative

GrubEx is a preventive product — it must be applied BEFORE grubs are actively damaging your lawn. If you already have grub damage (brown patches that peel up like carpet), you need a curative product like trichlorfon (Dylox) instead.

Bee Safety

Chlorantraniliprole is one of the safest insecticide active ingredients for pollinators. It has very low toxicity to bees, making it a responsible choice for grub prevention.