If you notice varying heights to your grass throughout your lawn, you may be unintentionally hosting Sod Webworms. At Nvirotect Pest Control Services, we proudly provide the best green pest control in Tampa. We understand how frustrating lawn damage can be, especially when it seems to appear overnight. Knowing the signs of a Sod Webworm issue and how to prevent it is the first step toward protecting your lawn’s aesthetic appeal year-round.
What Are Sod Webworms?
Sod Webworms are the larvae of small brown or tan moths commonly seen fluttering above the lawn at dusk. While the moths themselves do not cause damage, they lay eggs in the grass. Once the eggs are hatched, the larvae, which are the actual Sod Webworms, begin to feed on your grass rapidly. They can be found almost year-round due to Florida’s warm climate and grass types.
Lifecycle of Sod Webworms
Sod Webworms can actually have multiple generations per year. Their lifecycle begins when adult moths lay clusters of eggs on grass blades. These eggs can hatch in just a few days, and the larvae will immediately begin feeding on the grass. They burrow into the thatch layer of your lawn and create small silken tunnels, only to come out after dusk to chew on grass blades throughout the night.
The most damage to a lawn occurs during the larval stage, because the growing worms can strip away large patches of grass in a short amount of time. Once matured, they pupate and eventually emerge as moths to start the cycle over again in as few as a couple of months.
Signs of Sod Webworm Damage
The earlier you can identify that Sod Webworms are growing in your grass, the more likely you are to minimize overall damage. Some of the most common signs can include:
- Scalloped or chewed-up grass blades, particularly in areas of your lawn that get more sun
- Dry, brown patches that gradually expand over time, which can actually be mistaken for stress due to drought conditions
- A higher number of moths flying low over your lawn in the evening
- Visible larvae clusters in the thatch layer of your grass, especially when you part it or use a soapy water flush to bring them to the surface
If left untreated, Sod Webworms can cause significant aesthetic and health issues for your lawn. If you think that your lawn may be suffering from Sod Webworms, contact Nvirotect Pest Control Services for thorough lawn treatment in Tampa.
Prevention and Treatment
Nvirotect Pest Control Services is proud to offer comprehensive lawn & shrub care programs designed to prevent Sod Webworm damage before it gets extensive. Our preventative lawn care can not only target active larvae but also interrupt the Sod Webworm lifecycle to free your lawn from these pests.
A well-maintained lawn is also less susceptible to pest damage. Keeping your lawn properly irrigated, mowed, and fertilized creates an environment less attractive to pests. If you want the perks of a beautiful, healthy lawn without the headache of doing the lawn care yourself, Nvirotect Pest Control Services is your best resource.
Trust Nvirotect Pest Control for Expert Lawn and Pest Management
At Nvirotect Pest Control Services, we combine state of the art and eco-conscious techniques with effective products and strategies to keep your lawn green, healthy, and pest-free. If you suspect Sod Webworms or want to establish a preventive treatment plan, our Service Technicians are ready to help.
Contact Nvirotect Pest Control Services today to schedule your lawn inspection and learn how our year-round Tampa lawn treatment and shrub care services can stop Sod Webworms in their tracks. Call us at 813.968.7031 or complete our contact request form for a competitive quote.
