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Every homeowner knows that insects and wildlife can be essential assets to a healthy landscape. However, unlike bees and butterflies, some bugs — such as armyworms and grubworms — can do your lawn more harm than good. If you’re not sure how to spot these pests and send them packing, use the following lawn maintenance guide to your advantage. 

What Are Armyworms & Grubworms? 

Armyworms are caterpillars that eventually turn into moths. They're about 1.5 to 2 inches in length, and they can be identified by a Y-shaped head marking. They infest lawns and gardens in masses — which is why they’re associated with armies — in search of turfgrass. They eat the green blades, leaving unsightly brown patches. They can also destroy flower beds and vegetable gardens. You’re most likely to catch armyworms feeding in the evening or early morning.

Grubworms are white, C-shaped larvae that eventually turn into scarab beetles. They thrive in warm, humid conditions and eat the roots and thatch beneath your lawn. Like armyworms, they can create gradually expanding patches of brown, dead grass throughout the yard. 

How to Get Rid of Them

lawn maintenance

The best way to eradicate an infestation is to have a lawn maintenance team apply a one-time treatment to the property. They may use a natural pesticide known as pyrethrin or a bacterium known as Bacillus thuringiensis to shut down the worms’ digestive systems. 

They may also add diatomaceous earth to the soil, which contains sharp particles that prevent worms from moving through the dirt safely. For grubworms, the lawn maintenance team might use an insecticide called diazinon. They can prevent the pests from returning by aerating and dethatching the lawn, as well as teaching you proper watering and mowing tactics. 

 

If you’ve noticed brown patches throughout your lawn, reach out to Jake’s Lawn Care of Southwest Fort Worth, TX. They have taken excellent care of local landscapes for over 30 years. When you need to eliminate an infestation, you can rely on their skilled team to beautify the backyard and offer lasting prevention advice. To learn more about their lawn maintenance services, visit the website. Call (817) 292-2711 to ask for a free estimate. 

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