Sod Cutworms vs. Armyworms: Identification and Insecticide Treatment for New Sod

Brown Sod Two Weeks After Install

Cutworms (not armyworms) cause this. Armyworms have distinct "Y" on forehead; cutworms are "greasy-looking." Cutworms chew stems at ground level. If grass totally brown, may not recover. Check for tiny green sprigs.

Treatment

Apply turf insecticide to whole yard. Water thoroughly afterward to wash poison down to cutworms.