The Basics of Sod Webworms
What are Sod Webworms?:
Sod Webworms is a moth that feeds on the lawn from June up until winter (give or take a week or two). They lay eggs in the soil, the egg hatches and then the young start feeding on the grass, taking it down to the dirt (damage looks like a bunch of goats ate the grass down to the dirt).
What to look for:
Moths will fly out of the grass in or around areas that are damaged. The adult Sod Webworms (moths) prefer to stay in the landscape or the shrubs, just because you see them in the landscape doesn’t mean they are feeding on the plants (if so, very little damage is done). At night when the temperatures are cool they leave the landscape and lay their eggs in the soil. The egg hatches and then the damage starts to occur. You will notice the damage, it is very obvious.
How to get rid of Sod Webworms:
1) Treat as soon as possible with insect control labeled to kill Sod Webworms, be sure to read the label or hire a professional.
2) Fertilize your lawn to get the areas that are stressed out healthy again consistently.
3) Aerate the lawn to allow deeper water, nutrient and root penetration and also lateral growth from the roots, this will help areas fill back in.
4) Water properly
5) Don’t mow the lawn after treating for 15-20 days, let the grass grow up and out to make a full recovery.
After 15-20 days of your lawn being damaged by Sod Webworms it’s natural to see weeds and Bermuda grass growing in damaged areas. As St. Augustine becomes healthier it will overtake the weeds and Bermuda grass as long as you follow as directed.
Final Reminder on Sod Webworms:
Sod Webworms, Grub Worms and Brown Patch Disease can all three be active at the same time of year. Understanding Sod Webworms, knowing when they start to feed, recognizing the signs, and taking the proper actions can save your whole lawn from dying and possibly save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
