Chinch Bug Detection and Control in St. Augustine Grass

Yellow patches in St. Augustine grass may signal chinch bugs. Confirm by floating them out: press a gallon can (both ends removed) into the soil at a damaged spot, fill with water, and count bugs that surface in five minutes. Or use a soap flush (4 tbsp lemon-scented dish soap per gallon) poured at the edge of yellow grass, cover with a white towel, and watch bugs climb onto it. A handheld vacuum also works.

Heavy fertilization correlates with chinch bug damage. Fertilize only in April and June; use iron sulfate in July for color. If bugs are confirmed, apply a labeled lawn insecticide. Other causes of yellow spots exist, so proper ID is key.