We all understand the importance of having a beautiful, healthy lawn. But there’s one pest that can quickly destroy your lawn if you’re not prepared, armyworms. These tiny pests can strip a lawn of grass, leaving unsightly patches and brown spots behind. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about armyworm infestations and how you can protect your lawn from these bothersome pests.
What Are Armyworms?
Armyworms are small, grass-eating caterpillars, usually measuring around 1 to 2 inches in length. They come in a variety of colors, from greens and browns to yellows and blacks. Armyworms are not native to any particular region but are commonly found in many parts of North America and the world.
What Do Armyworms Eat?
Armyworms feed on grasses, including lawn grasses, pasture grasses, and cereal grain crops. They can consume large amounts of grass in very short periods of time and are capable of destroying lawns with surprisingly little effort.
Where Do Armyworms Come From?
Armyworms get their name from their method of travel – they move in large groups in a “marching” motion, giving the appearance of an army. These large groups can be seen in late summer and early fall, when the eggs hatch. The eggs are typically laid by the adult moth and can be found on grass blades, the stems of grasses and other types of vegetation.
How Do You Spot an Armyworm Infestation?
When an armyworm infestation is suspected, you’ll want to look for the telltale sign of their presence – bare spots in the lawn. These spots can be round or irregularly shaped, and may appear yellow or brown in color. If you look closer, you should be able to spot the armyworms on the grass blades or the stems of the grass.
How Can You Get Rid of Armyworms?
Once an armyworm infestation is confirmed, you’ll want to take action to get rid of the pests. One of the most effective ways to do this is by using beneficial nematodes, which are a type of microscopic worm that look for and kill armyworms. You can also apply a granular insecticide to the infested area to kill the pests, but you should be sure to follow the instructions on the label to avoid harming your lawn.
Are There Natural Ways to Repel Armyworms?
Yes, there are a few natural ways to repel armyworms and other pests that may be attacking your lawn. One of the most effective methods is to use a heavy-duty insecticide or insecticidal soap. You can also use dormant oil sprays to smother the pests, as well as cultural practices, such as mowing the lawn at a higher level and watering the grass less often.
People Also Ask
- What Are the Signs of Armyworm Infestation? The most common sign of armyworm infestation is patches of dead or dying grass, as well as yellow or brown spots in the lawn. You may also spot the caterpillars themselves moving along the grass blades.
- How Long Do Armyworms Live? Armyworms usually live for several weeks, although this can vary depending on environmental conditions.
- Can Armyworms Cause Damage to Plants? Yes, armyworms can cause significant damage to plants, as they feed on a variety of grasses, including lawn and pasture grasses, as well as cereal grain crops.
- Are Armyworms Poisonous? Armyworms are not poisonous, but they can be a nuisance and can cause considerable damage to a lawn if left unchecked.
- Do They Typically Leave After One Season? No, armyworms can return to the same area multiple times over the course of several years.
Final Words
Armyworms are a common pest and can cause a lot of damage to lawns in certain areas. If you suspect that you may have an armyworm infestation, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage. With the right preventative measures and prompt treatment, you can protect your lawn from these pesky pests.