Lawn Lovers' Guide To Sod Webworms: Spotting And Controlling Sod Webworms In Your Katy Lawn
One of the types of pests that create problems for Katy homeowners in their lawn and garden areas is sod webworms. These creatures are not actually worms but are the larvae of lawn moths. According to the researchers with the Texas A&M University’s Department of Entomology, the tropical sod webworm has been increasingly a concern recently in turfgrass across the coastal areas of Texas.
Are you seeking a professional provider of pest control near you? The best course of action involves contacting a local pest management company for help. An experienced Katy pest control professional receives the training needed to get the job done right.
Life Cycle Of Sod Webworms: How They Develop And Reproduce
Sod webworms begin as white eggs that the females place in groups of up to 15 within lawns. In roughly one week, these “caterpillar-like” worms emerge from their shells that are nearly too small to be seen with the naked eye. Over the next few weeks, these worms may grow to as long as ¾ of an inch long and usually appear in shades of pink, white, or brown, with fine hairs.
Next, these creatures transition into pupae and have a reddish-brown appearance. Reaching adulthood takes approximately 12 weeks when these moths emerge. The adult moths measure about ¾ of an inch long with developed wings. The mild winters in the Gulf Coast region allow these insects to survive and reach adulthood, which is impossible in areas with more frigid temperatures.
Understanding The Impact: How Sod Webworms Devastate Your Yard
Do sod webworms pose a risk to human health? No. Sod webworms are not dangerous creatures and are considered a type of nuisance pest that can create property damage in exterior areas.
As the population of sod webworms develops in your lawn, the grass will usually begin to appear yellowish-brown. In many cases, small patches that measure a few inches wide will appear. These pests continue damaging the lawn by eroding parts of the blades of grass.
Sod webworms in Katy are primarily active at night. These pests commonly infest golf courses and sports practice fields, allowing for the direct sunlight needed for these insects to thrive.
Because of the potential for damage, homeowners who discover sod webworms in their lawns should immediately consult a residential pest control expert. Too many individuals try do-it-yourself home pest control options sold by local retailers. Unfortunately, these store-bought products commonly prove to be ineffective and create prolonged frustration.
Preventing Sod Webworms: Proactive Lawn Care Practices
What are some of the most effective methods of preventing sod webworms from infesting your lawn? Consider these best practices:
- Regularly water your lawn to help resist these pests.
- Use a rack to remove any excess accumulations of thatch.
- Early detection of sod webworms is critical for the survival of your lawn.
- To confirm the presence of these pests, apply a soapy water mix using liquid dish detergent to an area of the lawn, which irritates these worms, causing them to emerge.
While these preventative measures have demonstrated significant results, some homeowners will still encounter these undesirable pests. In these instances, contacting a local pest control company for assistance is the best choice. A seasoned professional who provides lawn pest control in Katy, Texas, understands how these creatures behave and knows the most effective ways of removing them.
Professional Sod Webworm Treatments: Hiring Experts
Are you wondering how to expel sod webworms from your lawn? Contacting a local pest management company is the best option.
Modern Pest Control is a well-established organization specializing in residential and commercial pest control services for property owners throughout the Katy region. Contact our office today for additional information.