Armyworms are highly destructive pests that can devastate lawns in Texas quickly. In large infestations, they can ruin a lawn in just a couple of days due to their dense, marching feeding habits. Early signs of damage include brown patches and increased bird activity, as birds feed on armyworms. If you suspect an infestation, it's crucial to contact lawn care professionals for curative treatment to prevent extensive damage. Maintaining a healthy lawn through regular care can also reduce the risk of future infestations.

Armyworms Can Destroy Your Lawn in as Little as a Couple of Days

Grass blade with an armyworm in Austin, TX.

The rate at which armyworms can destroy a lawn largely depends on the size of the infestation. In large numbers, these pests can devastate an area in as little as a couple of days. Armyworms are aptly named for their "marching" behavior; they move in dense populations, consuming everything in their path. They primarily feed on grass blades, stripping the lawn of its green foliage and leaving behind a trail of destruction.

Armyworms typically feed during the early morning and late afternoon, avoiding the heat of the day. This feeding pattern allows them to cause significant damage before their presence is even detected. Their ability to blend in with the grass and their rapid consumption make them particularly challenging to manage once they’ve established themselves.

Armyworms are most active during the late summer and early fall months.

Signs of Armyworm Damage

Recognizing the signs of armyworm damage early can help mitigate their impact. One of the first indicators is the appearance of brown patches on your lawn. These patches are areas where the grass has been stripped of its leaves, leaving only the stems behind. As the infestation progresses, these brown areas can expand rapidly, seemingly overnight.

Another sign of armyworm activity is the presence of birds flocking to your lawn. Birds feed on armyworms, so an increase in bird activity can indicate an underlying issue. Additionally, you might notice armyworms themselves if you inspect the lawn closely. They are typically green, brown, or black caterpillars with distinctive stripes running along their bodies.

What should you do if you suspect an armyworm infestation in your lawn?

If you suspect an armyworm infestation, it's crucial to act quickly. The first step is to call in professionals who can assess the situation and implement a curative treatment. Lawn care experts have the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively target armyworms and minimize their damage. They can apply insecticides specifically designed to eliminate these pests and protect your lawn from further harm.

In addition to professional intervention, maintaining a healthy lawn can help reduce the risk of future infestations. Regular mowing, watering, and fertilization strengthen the grass, making it more resilient to pest attacks. Monitoring your lawn for signs of pests and addressing issues promptly can also prevent small problems from becoming large-scale infestations.

Give us a call today to schedule our armyworm control service!

If you suspect that your lawn is infested with armyworms, act quickly to prevent further damage. At Dr. Tex Lawn & Pest, we offer an armyworm control service designed to eliminate these pests from your property. Our curative treatments will target the armyworms on your lawn, stopping them in their tracks before they cause further damage. We also provide preventative treatments if you want to be proactive and ensure these tiny critters don't become an issue in the first place.

We offer our armyworm control service to residential and commercial property owners, as well as HOAs, in Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, and throughout the surrounding areas in Texas. Give us a call at (512) 717-5071 to schedule this service today!