Armyworms Invading the Midwest

Armyworms Invading the Midwest

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In many of our past blogs, we have discussed the various invasive species of pests that can harm your Kentucky lawn. From grubs to chinch bugs, you need to know how to deal with these pests, as they can be very damaging to your lawn. Recently, a new pest has been tearing up Kentucky lawns like never before. Armyworms have never been known to be an issue in Kentucky yards, yet they are providing problems to homeowners, and farmers alike. Yes, these Armyworms are even hurting local crops. When it comes to your Louisville landscape, these pests can be especially damaging. Causing large brown patches in your yard, you need to know exactly how to deal with them, and keep your turf healthy.

What are Armyworms?

These pests are actually just the larvae of the armyworm moth. They devour many crops, such as grain, and do so in the fashion of an army. Together and all at once, they come through the Eastern to the Central United States. They do not do well in cooler temperatures, so they generally do not venture into the yards of Kentucky homes, especially not this close to Fall. Spending most of their time through the fall and winter in Texas and Florida, residents of the Louisville area should be surprised to deal with this issue.

What Problems Do Armyworms Cause?

Although they are not an invasive species, they burrow beneath the surface of your turf and begin to pupate. After eating and thus killing your turf, they quickly lay many eggs that will appear as little white spheres and can be found around your property. This means you should wait to treat your property when they are most vulnerable.

Signs of an Armyworm Problem

The most general sign that you have a pest problem is brown patches beginning to appear in your yard. Now, the first thing to ensure is that you are up to date on all of your basic lawn maintenance, as your turf could just be dying. If you are sure that is not the case, then you can take a tub of soapy water, and pour it out onto what you think is the affected area. This will bring the Armyworms to the surface, and confirm your suspicions.

Armyworm Treatment Options

Things get really testy when it comes to the treatment of Armyworms. These critters are usually too far along in development to be eliminated through typical pest control methods. Consult Nature’s Mulch when looking for the proper insecticide, but you will need to ensure that it contains either carbaryl or a pyrethroid. The affected areas likely will not heal on their own, and homeowners will have to completely replace the turf. If this is an endeavor you must partake in, Nature’s Mulch is the place to be.

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