Armyworms are a type of caterpillar that can cause significant damage to your lawn in Texas if they infest it. They feed on grass blades, leaving behind brown patches and thinning areas. These pests are most problematic in the late summer and early fall when they are most active. If you notice signs of an armyworm infestation, such as brown patches or thinning areas on your lawn, it's important to contact professionals. They will inspect your turf to confirm whether you are indeed dealing with armyworms and administer a curative treatment to get rid of them. By taking immediate action, you can prevent further damage to your lawn.

What are armyworms, and what damage can they cause?

Armyworms are the larvae of certain moth species and are a common lawn pest that can cause significant damage if not addressed promptly. These caterpillars are typically green or brown with distinctive stripes running down their bodies, and they are known for their voracious appetite for grass.

Armyworms feed primarily on grass blades, chewing them down to the ground and creating brown patches and thinning areas across your lawn. They tend to move in large groups, which allows them to quickly strip wide sections of grass, leaving behind bare, unsightly areas. In addition to the visible damage, heavy infestations can weaken your lawn, making it more susceptible to disease and other pests. If left untreated, armyworms can cause extensive and sometimes lasting harm, requiring extra effort and expense to restore your lawn to its former health and vibrancy.

Armyworms earned their name because they move and feed in large, coordinated groups, marching across fields like an army to consume vegetation.

When do armyworms become most problematic?

Armyworm on a blade of grass in Austin, TX.

Armyworms are most problematic in the late summer and early fall when they are most active. During this time, they are in their larval stage and are actively feeding on your grass. The warm and humid weather during this time of year provides the ideal conditions for armyworms to thrive and multiply.

In addition to the weather conditions, armyworms are also attracted to lawns that are stressed or weakened. This can be caused by factors such as drought, over-fertilization, or improper mowing practices. By keeping your lawn healthy and well-maintained, you can reduce the likelihood of an armyworm infestation.

What should you do if you notice signs of an armyworm infestation?

If you notice signs of an armyworm infestation on your lawn, such as brown patches or thinning areas, it's important to take immediate action. The first step is to contact professionals who can inspect your turf to confirm whether you are indeed dealing with armyworms.

If armyworms are detected, professionals can administer a curative treatment to get rid of them. This treatment typically involves applying insecticides to your lawn, which will kill the armyworms and prevent them from causing further damage. It's important to follow the instructions provided by the professionals and take any necessary precautions to protect yourself and your pets from the insecticides.

Call us today to schedule our armyworm control service!

If you're dealing with an armyworm infestation on your lawn, we are the company to call. At Dr. Tex Lawn & Pest, we offer an armyworm control service that involves applying a curative treatment to eliminate these pests. Preventative treatments are also offered to prevent these pests from infesting your lawn in the first place. Our armyworm control service is offered to residential and commercial property owners, as well as HOAs, in Austin, TX, and surrounding areas like Round Rock, Cedar Park, and Pflugerville. Give us a call today at (512) 717-5071 to schedule our armyworm control service and protect your lawn from these destructive pests!