Dealing with Lawn Pests: Identification, Treatment & Prevention

A healthy lawn resists pests naturally. When invaders appear, accurate ID and targeted treatment save time, money, and beneficial organisms.

Two Pest Categories

Soil inhabitants (grubs, billbugs, mole crickets) feed on roots—wilting, dead patches. Thatch inhabitants (chinch bugs, sod webworms, cutworms) feed on blades—irregular yellowing, clipped grass at soil line.

Step 1: Identify the Culprit

Dig a 1-ft square, 3 inches deep. Count grubs (>5–10 = treatment threshold). For surface pests, use a soap flush (2 tbsp dish soap/gal water) to drive them up.

Step 2: Cultural Prevention

Mow high (3–4"), water deeply/ infrequently, fertilize appropriately. Dense turf crowds out weeds and tolerates minor feeding.

Step 3: Targeted Treatment

Granular vs. liquid: Granules need immediate watering-in to reach soil pests. Liquids cover foliage for thatch pests. Follow label rates exactly—under-dosing breeds resistance.

Timing matters: Treat grubs in late summer (small, near surface). Treat surface feeders when active (spring/fall).

Combo products (grub + surface) save applications but verify both pests are present.

Irrigation & Application Tips

Pre-water dry soil for better penetration. For granules, water immediately to wash off blades. Avoid mowing 24 hrs before/after.

Recovery

Healthy lawns bounce fast. Overseed thin areas. Maintain culture—pests return to weak turf.

Know the pest. Treat the cause. Keep the lawn strong.