Chinch Bugs in New Sod and Dollarweed Control

2-month-old sod turning brown despite adequate water. Chinch bugs visible. Also tried sugar on dollarweed (failed). Need chinch bug control and dollarweed solution.

Chinch Bugs: Urgent Action Required

• Visible bugs = population above threshold.
• Bifenthrin (Talstar): Liquid or granular. Very effective.
• Fipronil granules: Also excellent. Longer residual.
• Apply per label. Water in granules.
• Re-scout 10–14 days later.

Dollarweed (Hydrocotyle): Moisture Indicator

• Thrives in wet conditions. Overwatering or poor drainage.
• Atrazine: Standard for dollarweed in St. Augustine. Check temperature limits (don't apply >85–90°F).
• Reduce irrigation frequency; improve drainage.
• Sugar has no proven efficacy.

New Sod Vulnerability

Young sod has shallow roots. Chinch bugs devastate it fast. Don't delay treatment.