summer SOD WEBWORMS ALERT

Sod webworms are currently a significant pest problem in lawns, particularly in the warm and humid climate we are experiencing in Houston and surrounding areas.
These pests can cause noticeable damage to your lawn if not managed properly.
What are Sod Webworms?

• Larvae Stage: Sod webworms are the larval (caterpillar) stage of a small moth. The larvae are the ones that cause damage to lawns by feeding on the grass blades.
• Appearance: The larvae are small, usually about 1/2 to 3/4 inch long, with a brown or greenish color and a spotted pattern.
• Life Cycle: Adult moths lay eggs in the grass, and the larvae hatch and begin feeding on the grass. There can be multiple generations per year, especially in warm climates like Houston.

Signs of Sod Webworm Damage

• Irregular Brown Patches: The most common sign is brown patches in your lawn. These can appear almost overnight and often spread quickly.
• Chewed Grass Blades: On closer inspection, you might notice that the grass blades are chewed down, giving the lawn a ragged appearance.
• Moth Activity: You might notice small moths flying around the lawn in the evening. While the moths don’t cause damage themselves, their presence can indicate that eggs have been laid, leading to future infestations.

Why is it a Problem in Memorial Drive Area?

• Climate: The warm and humid conditions in Houston, particularly in the Memorial Drive area, create an ideal environment for sod webworms. The high humidity and consistent temperatures allow for multiple generations throughout the growing season.
• Lush Lawns: The Memorial Drive area is known for its well-maintained, lush lawns, which are attractive to sod webworms. Well-fertilized and irrigated lawns provide the perfect feeding ground for these pests.
• Seasonality: Sod webworms are most active in late Summer through early fall. This makes the problem more noticeable and urgent during these months.

Prevention and Control

• Regular Lawn Maintenance: Keep your lawn healthy with proper fertilization, watering, and mowing practices. A thick, healthy lawn is less susceptible to damage.
• Insecticides: If the infestation is severe, chemical insecticides may be necessary. 
• Watering: A good practice is to water your lawn throroughly  in the morning. This not only promotes a healthy lawn but can also disrupt the lifecycle of sod webworms.
• Monitor: Regularly check for signs of damage, especially during the peak months of activity. Early detection can make a big difference in managing the problem.

We can help

• If you notice large areas of your lawn turning brown rapidly, contact us inmediately. We can provide more targeted treatments and advice tailored to the specific conditions in the Memorial Drive area and its surrondings.

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