Lawn Pests
Turf-damaging pests can severely impact lawns if left unchecked. Grubs feed on grass roots, causing widespread damage, while Tuttle mealybugs hide in thatch and resist common insecticides. Armyworms rapidly strip turfgrass, and spittlebugs inject toxins that lead to yellowing and dieback. Zoysia mites, nearly invisible, stunt growth by curling leaves. Understanding these pests is key to protecting and maintaining a healthy lawn. 🌱🐛
How We Deal With Lawn Pests
Peak Pest Season
🪲Grubs - Peak feeding season is during late summer and fall. However, because grubs eat roots, not foliage, signs of damage can be delayed and not obvious until the following spring.
Mealybugs - Late summer or during drought.
Spittle Bugs - In early summer, we are still getting rain, but temperatures are rising.
Armyworms - Mid to late summer
Zoysia Mites - All summer.
Moles and Digging Creatures - Spring and early summer.
Fire Ants - All summer.
Warning Signs
Pest damage is often mistaken for drought stress.
Brown or dead patches of grass
Grass that pulls out easily, as if unrooted
Increased animal activity—birds, skunks, and raccoons dig up lawns, searching for grubs.
Large populations of caterpillar-like worms
Insects that Hop and Jump Away When You Walk Through the Lawn.
Grass blades turning yellow, brown, or purple.
Vertical yellow striping on the grass blades.
Wilting stems and leaves, leading to turf death.
Rolled or Arched Foliage
Contributing Factors
Certain turf types, such as Zoysia and St. Augustine, are more susceptible.
Excessive thatch buildup makes a perfect home for many types of pests.
Avoid other stress factors such as drought, improper mowing practices, or not enough sunlight (all warm season grass do best in FULL SUN).
Over-saturation due to overwatering or poor drainage.
Sometimes it is just bad luck.