What Causes Sod Webworms?

What Causes Sod Webworms?
The first signs of sod webworm feeding are found in spring. The chewing activity of the worms removes the tender top growth of the grass and leaves behind thin patches of shorter grass. As they grow, the webworms cause larger areas of brown sod.

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Accordingly, where do sod webworms come from?

Bt kurstaki (Bt-k) Sod webworms live in the thatch, just above the soil, where they spin a light webbing and feed on the undersides of leaves. Damage first appears as small, ragged brown spots in the turf.

Subsequently, question is, when should I treat my lawn for sod webworms? Synthetic pyrethroids are common products to use on sod webworms, and there are a few things to keep in mind when treating for these lawn pests.

  1. Apply the product late in the day, since these pests are active at night.
  2. Water your turf thoroughly a few days before application, which will help bring worms to the surface.

Consequently, how do you prevent sod webworms?

Prevent Sod Webworm Next Year

  1. Create Diversity. It is a good idea to encourage the many insects and animals living in your yard that normally prey on lawn pests.
  2. Get Rid Of Thatch. Sod webworms often infest lawns that have a serious thatch problem.
  3. Keep The Lawn Cool.
  4. Mow The Lawn Properly.
  5. Attract Beneficial Insects To The Yard.
  6. Feed Birds Year Round.

Do sod webworms kill grass?

Sod webworms are the larvae of lawn moths. They live in the root level of your lawn and munch up the grass leaves. They can kill an entire lawn in a matter of days. When the weather turns hot, patches of your grass may start to turn brown.

Related Question Answers

How do I know if I have sod webworms?

Symptoms of Sod Webworm Damage
Small brown spots may appear in the grass, a little at first, and then as the season progresses with rising temperatures and drier conditions, grass growth slows and the brown spots become larger and intersect. This is an indication of possible sod webworm infestation.

Are webworms bad?

Before panicking, the first thing you should know is that these webworms don't typically cause a lot of damage to trees and shrubs. They look far worse than they are. Even if they defoliate your tree, it's usually late enough in the season that it doesn't harm your tree.
James H. Sterling
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James H. Sterling

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.