Turfgrass Pest Management


Pest management is crucial to maintaining a vibrant and healthy turf, whether it’s a golf course, sports field, park, or residential lawn. By employing an integrated pest management (IPM) approach, you can effectively minimize damage while preserving the aesthetics and functionality of your turf.

 

Insects to Watch Out For:

  • Grubs: Larvae of beetles like Japanese beetles and June bugs. They are white, C-shaped, found in soil, and they damage grass roots, leading to wilting and dead patches.

  • Chinch Bugs: Tiny black bugs with white-tipped wings that suck sap from grass, leading to yellowing and wilting in patches.

  • Armyworms: Moth larvae that are green or brown with stripes, causing rapid defoliation and large dead patches.

  • Webworms: Larvae of small moths that create webs in thatch and feed on grass blades, causing irregular dead patches.

  • Billbugs/Weevils: Beetles with curved snouts. Their larvae damage grass roots, similar to grubs.

 

Identification and Monitoring:

  • Regular Inspections: Check for unusual patches, wilting, or any visible insects. Dig or peel back small turf sections to find soil-dwelling pests.

  • Damage/Symptoms: Look for irregular dead patches and observe signs of yellowing or wilting.

  • Animal Indicators: Damage from raccoons, opossums, foxes, or skunks may actually be a sign of an insect infestation.

 

Management Strategies:

  • Cultural Controls:

    • Proper watering and fertilization will maintain a healthy, resilient grass.

    • Dethatching or aeration to reduce thatch buildup.

  • Physical Controls:

    • Removing pests by hand for small infestations.

    • Regular mowing and lawn care help discourage pests.

  • Chemical Controls:

    • Use insecticides that target specific pests and ALWAYS follow label instructions. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln recommends products containing carbaryl, imidacloprid, or pyrethroids. Find more recommendations here.

    • Timely applications - apply when pests are most vulnerable. Proper identification will help determine which part of a pest's life cycle is most suitable for control.

  • Biological Controls:

    • Employ beneficial nematodes for soil pests. Consult your local Extension office or garden center for product recommendations.

    • Encourage natural predators like birds and beetles by incorporating flowering species in your landscape.

  • Integrated Pest Management (IPM):

    • A well-rounded approach that uses multiple strategies will give the best results.

    • Regularly monitor and adjust control methods as needed. Consult Nebraska Extension’s IPM Guide. 

 

Key Considerations:

  • Non-target Effects: Be mindful of chemical impacts on beneficial organisms. Many pollinators are negatively impacted by common pesticides used in turf applications. Always check the label for application restrictions before using a product.

  • Timing: Ensure timely application of treatments for the most effective control.

  • Consult an Expert: Be sure to reach out to your local Extension office provided by your state university for proper pest identification and chemical recommendations for your specific region