Cutworm, Sod Webworm, Lawngrub

The worms cause damage to lawns while grubs destroy roots and grass in spring, summer and early fall. Identification is important because symptoms are similar.

Prevention/Management

• Inspect lawns for bare spots, test spray with pyrethrum or detergent, look for caterpillars. Treat pests before infestations become large.
• Encourage beneficial birds.

Controls

• More toxic: Dursban® (chlorpyrifos) and others, diazinon.
• Less toxic:

- cutworm, sod webworm: Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) - biological control, beneficial nematodes

- lawngrub: beneficial nematodes

Fusarium Blight

This fungus attacks bluegrass lawns in summer and early fall. Symptoms are a brown or black circular patch.

Prevention/Management

• Water appropriately; this disease attacks water stressed lawns.
• Do not over-fertilize.
• Change lawn type.

Controls

• More toxic: Bayleton® and others.
• Less toxic:

- see prevention/management