White Moths in the Lawn: Sod Webworm Identification and Control

A homeowner sees many white moths in the grass and asks the cause.

Sod Webworm

Adult moth: ½ inch, tan/buff, wings tubelike at rest; dipping zigzag flight.
Caterpillar: gray/green, 1 inch, brown spots; night feeder from silk-lined thatch tunnels.
Damage: irregular brown patches (thatch exposed), green frass at base; worst in dry periods.
Control: chemical insecticides effective; irrigate after for recovery.

Lawns: Controlling Moths and Caterpillars on Shrubs with Bt; Best Grass for Nashville, TN (Zone 6b): Balancing Heat, Drought, and Winter Color; Establishing Zoysia in Rocky Clay Soil: Organic Soil Prep; 10 Myths About Artificial Grass—Debunked; How Turf Is Grown: From Seed to Instant Lawn; Waterless Turf: Synthetic Grass Saves Water, Time & Money; Artificial Turf for Homes: Pet-Friendly, Kid-Safe, Low Maintenance; Natural Grass vs. Artificial Turf: Choosing the Best Surface for Sports Fields; Artificial Turf: Pros, Cons, and Best Uses for Synthetic Grass; Artificial Turf Installation: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Garden Articles

Plants