Sod webworms can wreak havoc on a lawn. These worms, which are really the larval stage of a specific species of moth, live in the soil. They feed on the grass roots, causing the entire grass plant to turn brown and die because it can no longer obtain water or nutrients. Once the worms have overrun your lawn, bringing it back to life can be difficult. Luckily, there are plenty of steps you can take to control sod webworms. Start by following the tips below.
Fertilize and water your lawn.
This may sound overly simple, but fertilizing and watering your lawn can go a long way toward keeping sod webworms under control. While these steps won't directly kill the webworms, they will keep your grass a lot healthier. So, if a few webworms do move in, your grass will be better able to recover and survive in spite of their presence. Make sure you water your lawn first thing in the morning so the sun does not cause the water to heat up and scorch the delicate grass blades. When fertilizing, use a slow-release formula made specifically for grass.
Scatter diatomaceous earth in the spring.
Sod webworms have two generations per season. The first generation hatches in the spring. They turn into adult moths a few weeks later, and then those moths lay eggs that hatch into webworms late in the summer. If you can prevent the first generation from hatching and thriving, then you won't have to worry much about a second generation. To control the first generation, scatter some diatomaceous earth (DE) over your lawn first thing in the spring. DE is a powdery substance that will help dehydrate the worms and kill them. It's quite safe for use around humans and animals; just don't inhale it. Apply it generously, and re-apply it if it rains within a few days of application.
Check for webworms.
Throughout the spring, periodically dig a little hole in an inconspicuous place in your lawn. Look at the soil that is unearthed. Do you see any worms wiggling about? If you do, then you need to treat your lawn with pesticides ASAP. Look for a liquid formula, as it will penetrate the soil faster. Or, call a lawn care company and ask them to treat the lawn for you. Whichever option you choose, don't delay.
Sod webworms are destructive, but you can get ahead of them with the practices above. For help caring for your lawn, contact a professional sod webworm control service in your area.
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