360PestControl Professional Services

It’s Spring In Florida So It’s Time For…Sod Webworms!

Tropical Sod Webworm Life Cycle

The sod webworm is actually a large group of insects with over 20 species that infest turfgrass in Florida. Our most prolific species in Florida is the Tropical Sod Webworm. While this webworm prefers St. Augustine grass, it will also feed on centipede, Bahia, Bermuda, and zoysia grasses.

Tropical sod webworm caterpillars feed at night, dawn and dusk. During the heat of the day, they nest in the grass.

The first sign of an infestation is often what is referred to as “window feeding”. This refers to the surface of the grass blade being removed. Later we begin to notice ragged grass blades, piles of bright green caterpillar droppings, thinning of the grass, and then areas of brown, dead, grass. This process can develop in a few days.

Signs of Sod Webworms in Florida Signs of Tropical Sod Webworms in Florida

Control of sod webworms is less difficult than chinch bugs but it is important to treat at the first signs of infestation, if not before. If caught quickly, the turf will often recover once the larval stage of the insect is removed.

360PestControl can identify and treat any insect problem you may have in your metro Jacksonville lawn. We are a full-service pest control company. Contact us at (904) 637-1109 to request service for any pest, termite, lawn, or ornamental issues you may have.

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