Have you walked out in your yard lately and noticed moths flying around in a zig zag pattern? Or maybe seen brown or dead spots in your lawn recently? Well, drought damage is common and there many other different types of moths. But, there is one very popular culprit this time of the year. The culprit being, Sod Webworms. So, chances are you’ve heard a lot about these destructive pests. In conclusion, let’s get down to the details to better understand what these pests do.
Sod Web Webworms Life Cycle
The life cycle of sod webworms is important to know so you have a knowledge on how to better prevent them or catch them before becoming an infestation. First, the Adult Sod Webworms (moths) spread their eggs all over the top layer of the lawn at night. Then, the eggs lay over the upper layer of the grass and hatch within 10-14 days. Next, when the eggs hatch, the caterpillars go through 5-6 larvae stages before they turn into pupae. Lastly, they use debris and small pieces of grass to web together their cocoons to prepare for their last life stage, pupation. Overall, it takes about 21-47 days for them to complete their whole life cycle. Adult Sod Webworms are grayish, brown and can grow up to 3/4in in length and in wingspan.
How the Lifecycle Affects Lawn
To start, the most common misconception is that many believe that the Moths destroy the lawn. Furthermore, the Sod Webworm moths do not harm the lawn at all. However, this is where knowing the lifecycle comes into play. They prefer hot and dry grassy areas where drought stress is prevalent. As a result, in the first four larvae stages, they feed on the upper leaf of the grass blades. Then, when the larvae are in the fifth and sixth stages, they chew the entire leaf blades of the grass leading to damage of the lawn. Although, Sod Webworms only become an issue when there is an infestation. Some ways you could tell if Sod Webworms are attacking your lawn is if you have patches of grass chewed down ground level. In addition, there are usually fecal pellets and grass clippings present in these areas.
Some ways to help prevent an infestation is to make sure you’re doing routine mowing, watering, and lawn maintenance.
If you need your lawn on a maintenance routine, need advice on keeping the lawn healthy or even think that you have Sod Webworms, feel free to contact us at anytime. We service areas such as Winter Park, Fl 32792 to cover your pest needs.
Rh miller Pest Services is committed to your safety from insects not only inside your home, but outside your home as well. As with all of our service, our process starts with a free estimate. Call our office at 407-339-7119 to schedule your free, no obligation inspection and or treatment today!
