Sod Webworm Control in Jacksonville, FL
Sod webworms are destructive pests that can damage lawns throughout Florida, particularly during the warm growing season. These small caterpillars feed on grass blades, leaving brown patches and thinning turf in their wake. At B&B Exterminating in Jacksonville, FL, we specialize in professional sod webworm control for residential and commercial properties. Call us today at (904) 389-3323 for a professional inspection and treatment plan.
Understanding Sod Webworms
Sod webworms are the larvae of small moths that lay eggs on turfgrass. The larvae feed primarily at night and hide in the thatch or soil during the day, making early detection difficult. Key characteristics include:
Caterpillar Larvae That Grow up to 1 Inch Long
Light Brown or Gray Coloration With Darker Stripes Along the Body
Nocturnal Feeding Habits That Cause Rapid Damage
Preference for St. Augustine Grass, Bermudagrass, and Zoysia
Their feeding weakens grass, reduces lawn aesthetics, and makes turf more vulnerable to other stressors.
Signs of Sod Webworm Infestation
Early detection is critical to prevent extensive lawn damage. Common signs include:
- Brown or dead patches that enlarge rapidly
- Grass blades with small, irregular bite marks
- Presence of larvae in the thatch layer when dug up carefully
- Increased bird activity feeding on exposed larvae
- Thinning or weakened turf that pulls up easily due to root stress
Professional inspection ensures proper identification and treatment before damage spreads.
Causes & Contributing Factors
Several conditions contribute to sod webworm infestations:
- Warm, humid weather, ideal for larval development
- Excessive thatch, which provides shelter for larvae
- Over-fertilization, promoting tender, succulent grass
- Poor mowing practices, which stress turf and make it more susceptible
- Neglected lawns, where weakened turf is easy prey for pests
Understanding these factors helps guide both treatment and preventive strategies.
Professional Sod Webworm Control Services
DIY methods often fail to eliminate sod webworms due to their hidden daytime behavior. B&B Exterminating provides comprehensive solutions:
- Detailed lawn inspections to assess infestation severity
- Targeted insecticide applications to reach larvae in thatch and soil
- Timing treatments during peak larval activity for maximum effectiveness
- Follow-up visits to ensure complete eradication
- Lawn care guidance to promote healthy, resilient turf
Our professional approach ensures effective control while minimizing damage to your lawn.
Preventing Sod Webworm Damage
Prevention is key to maintaining a healthy, vibrant lawn. Recommended practices include:
- Proper irrigation to maintain healthy grass without creating overly moist thatch
- Regular mowing at proper heights to strengthen turf and reduce larval habitat
- Thatch management through aeration and dethatching
- Balanced fertilization to avoid overgrowth that attracts pests
- Monitoring for early signs of larvae, moths, or bird activity
Combining preventive care with professional treatments ensures long-term lawn protection.
Long-Term Effects of Sod Webworm Damage
If left untreated, sod webworm infestations can lead to long-term lawn damage. Continuous feeding weakens turfgrass, making it more susceptible to drought, disease, and other pests. Over time, this can result in thinning lawns, bare spots, and increased maintenance costs. Early intervention and professional treatment are essential to restore your lawn’s health and prevent recurring damage.
Seasonal Awareness for Sod Webworm Control
Sod webworms are most active during Florida’s warm months, typically from late spring through early fall. Regular inspections during these peak activity periods are crucial for early detection and effective control. Professional treatments combined with proper lawn care practices help prevent new infestations and ensure that your turf remains healthy, lush, and resistant to future pest problems.
Serving Jacksonville, FL, & Surrounding Areas
For over 85 years, B&B Exterminating has provided expert lawn pest control across Jacksonville and Northeast Florida. From Orange Park and St. Augustine to Ponte Vedra Beach and Amelia Island, our team offers professional sod webworm control for residential lawns, commercial properties, and athletic fields. We deliver fast, effective results to restore turf health and maintain attractive, safe outdoor spaces.
Protect Your Lawn From Sod Webworms
Call B&B Exterminating today at (904) 389-3323 for professional sod webworm control in Jacksonville, FL, and surrounding areas.
