As spring arrives in Georgia, lawns begin to flourish with lush greenery—but so do pests that can threaten the health of your grass. At Lawn in Order in Decatur, we understand the frustration of dealing with unwanted lawn invaders. Knowing when to watch for them, how to detect their presence, and what to do about them can help keep your yard in peak condition.
Top Lawn Pests to Watch for in Spring
1. Armyworms
- When to Watch: Late spring to early summer.
- Signs of Infestation: Brown patches that spread rapidly, visible caterpillars munching on grass blades.
- What to Do: Applying insecticide early in the infestation can prevent widespread damage. Natural predators, such as birds and beneficial insects, also help control the population.
2. Grubs
- When to Watch: Early spring, as overwintered grubs become active.
- Signs of Infestation: Spongy turf that lifts easily, brown patches, increased presence of birds and raccoons digging for food.
- What to Do: A preventative grub treatment in early spring can stop them before they cause damage. Aerating the lawn can also reduce their numbers.
3. Chinch Bugs
- When to Watch: Warm, dry periods in late spring.
- Signs of Infestation: Yellowing grass that turns brown and dies, particularly in sunny areas.
- What to Do: Regular watering and dethatching can help deter chinch bugs. Insecticidal treatments may be necessary for severe infestations.
4. Fire Ants
- When to Watch: Spring and summer as temperatures rise.
- Signs of Infestation: Mounds of soil on the lawn, painful stings when disturbed.
- What to Do: Bait treatments are effective in eliminating colonies. Professional lawn services can provide targeted treatments for long-term control.
5. Mole Crickets
- When to Watch: Early spring as they emerge from the soil.
- Signs of Infestation: Small tunnels in the soil, thinning or dead grass patches.
- What to Do: Nematodes or insecticides can control mole crickets before they cause major damage.
Protect Your Lawn This Spring
Keeping these pests in check requires early detection and proactive lawn care. At Lawn in Order in Decatur, we provide expert lawn maintenance services, including pest prevention and treatment, to ensure your yard stays healthy and beautiful all season long.
Contact us today to schedule a lawn assessment and take the first step toward a pest-free, thriving lawn!
