Sod Webworms can cause exceptional damage to lawns and parks, especially during periods of drought. There are several species of sod webworms, and they all look similar. They live in the thatch, above the ground, and create webs to feed on the underside of the leaves of the grass. When the leaf is hit and they are disturbed, sod webworms curl up into small balls immediately. Their host plants include Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue, bentgrass, and perennial ryegrass.
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Get A QuoteAt the larval stage, the sod webworm measures 1 inch in length when fully developed, but they start small, with only 1/8 inch long. The color and patterns vary with the species and host plant, but the majority are gray, green, and brown in color with a few dark spots on the surface of their bodies. Its head capsule is light brown with some dark marks.
A full-grown moth is 1/2 to 3/4 inches long with a small dark line on top of each wing. When the adults are resting, they have the habit of folding their wings around their bodies. When disturbed, they fly in a zigzag direction over short distances before going to the grass again.
Sod webworms spend their winter in the thatch which the larvae created to keep them protected against the cold temperature, and it’s mostly situated a few inches below the surface of the lawn. They will become active again in April or early May and continue to feed before becoming pupae and developing into moths.
Unlike most lawn and crop pests, a female sod webworm flies above the surface, laying eggs as it moves. The eggs are dropped on the grass and hatch into larvae after a week. They will start feeding quickly on the leaf tissue of grass. The larvae go through 6-10 molts as they develop. Since there is a huge number of webworm species and because the climate is different from one place to another, there is a difference in the growth of sod webworms.
The damage caused by the sod webworm larvae can be determined by brown patches in the grass that are the same size as a baseball. Punctures and a few tiny holes can also form as a result of birds searching for webworms. The larvae consume the leaves and stems at the top of the crown. As they continue to grow and feed, damages incurred can be more extensive.
Fleming Lawn and Pest Services offers effective sod webworm control tailored to Florida lawns. Our team provides reliable sod webworm pest control in Florida, using proven methods such as targeted treatments, lawn health management, and professional-grade solutions. For homeowners needing expert help, we deliver trusted sod webworm treatment services in Palm Beach County and Broward County. From early detection to full sod webworm lawn pest control, Fleming LPS helps protect your turf, reduce thatch buildup, and keep your lawn healthy and resilient year-round.
Noticing brown patches or thinning grass? Don’t let sod webworms take over your lawn. Reach out to us for expert sod webworm control and customized lawn pest solutions. Schedule your inspection today and enjoy healthier, greener turf without the stress.
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