Treating Sod Webworms: Tips for Southeast MI Homeowners

Maintaining a lush, green lawn is a dream for many homeowners in Southeast Michigan. However, there are various threats that can compromise the beauty and health of your turf. One such menace is the sod webworm. These tiny pests may be small in size, but their impact on your lawn can be significant. 

Luckily, there are several ways to get rid of webworms. Let’s discuss how homeowners and lawn care professionals can combat these unwanted critters and keep your lawn looking healthy year-round. Before we take a deep dive, it’s important to understand exactly what sod webworms are and why they present such trouble for your yard…

What Are Sod Webworms?

Essentially, these worms are moth larvae that belong to the Crambidae family. These pests are most active from early spring to late fall. During this span, they feed on blades of grass, which creates brown patches on your lawn. Sod webworms can be identified by their straw-colored bodies and dark spots on their heads.

Signs of Sod Webworm Infestation

Detecting sod webworm infestations early on is crucial to minimizing and controlling their effects on your lawn. Keep an eye out for these signs:

• Brown patches – Irregular patches of brown, thinning grass
• Increased moth sightings – More moths are flying over your lawn during evenings
• Small silk tubes – These tunnels are created by larvae and are an early sign of infestation
• Increased bird sightings – Birds regularly feed on larvae, and their presence could indicate sod webworms in your lawn
  

How Sod Webworms Threaten Your Lawn

Sod webworms can multiply rapidly and their large appetites can lead to extensive damage if left unchecked. While the brown patches are unsightly, they can also create an uneven surface in your yard. Moreover, the weakened turf becomes susceptible to other problems, such as disease and weed infestations.

Can You Get Rid of Sod Webworms On Your Own?

It’s possible to remove sod webworms yourself, but these DIY attempts can take some time and effort. Here are some ways you can eliminate them from your yard:

Removing Sod Webworms Manually

If you spot sod webworms or their larvae, you can try manually removing them. Wear gloves and pick them off by hand or use a small trowel to gently lift the damaged turf and expose the larvae to birds and other natural predators.

Irrigation

Sod webworms prefer dry conditions, so watering your lawn deeply and infrequently can help deter them. Watering deeply encourages the growth of healthy roots and makes it more challenging for sod webworms to survive.

Keep Grass Around 3 Inches High

Mow your lawn regularly to discourage sod webworms. Keep the grass height at around 3 inches and avoid cutting your lawn too short. Longer grass blades can be less attractive to these pests.

Use Biological Control Agents

Consider using biological control agents such as beneficial nematodes or Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) products. Beneficial nematodes are microscopic worms that attack and kill sod webworm larvae, while Bt products contain bacteria that are toxic to the larvae. 

Insecticides

If the infestation is severe or other methods haven't provided satisfactory results, you could consider using insecticides labeled for sod webworm control. Look for products containing active ingredients like bifenthrin, carbaryl or permethrin. 

Lawn Maintenance

Maintain good yard care practices, including regular fertilization, proper watering and lawn aeration. A healthy lawn is more resilient to sod webworm damage.

Controlling Sod Webworms With Visionary Fertilization

Visionary Fertilization is a trusted name in lawn care, offering effective solutions for pest control, including sod webworms. Here's how our comprehensive lawn care program can help you combat these pests:

• Professional Assessment – Our lawn care experts will inspect your lawn, identify the extent of the infestation and develop a treatment plan tailored to your lawn's specific needs.
• Environmentally Friendly Approach  – We use eco-friendly products and methods, ensuring the safety of your family, pets and the environment while effectively controlling sod webworms.
• Targeted Treatments – Through precise application, our technicians can target sod webworms in their vulnerable larval stage, interrupting their lifecycle and preventing further damage to your lawn.
• Ongoing Maintenance – Visionary Fertilization's lawn care program includes regular visits to monitor the progress, address any new issues and provide you with expert guidance for maintaining a healthy lawn.

Ready To Get Started? Contact Us Today!

If you need help managing lawn pests, Visionary Fertilization has got you covered! Located in Shelby Township, we provide reliable outdoor pest control services across Macomb County.

Call us today at 586-315-4731 and  take the first step towards a beautiful, pest-free lawn. To learn more about our other services, including our tree and shrub program, click the link here.