As a homeowner, having a lush and verdant lawn is a point of pride. But it can be a challenge here in Florida, where the warm, humid climate creates optimal conditions for many pests that can damage your lawn.
Pests are practically everywhere in Florida, and there are two keys to ensuring your lawn is protected. First, you need to know how to prevent lawn pests. Secondly, you need a happy and healthy lawn that’s able to withstand them. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive checklist – our most helpful tips for preventing lawn pests in the spring. By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of infestation from these common Florida lawn pests:
- Chinch bugs
- Mole crickets
- Fire ants
- Sod webworms
- Armyworms
- Grubs
- Spittlebugs
- Bermudagrass mites
- Nematodes
Early Spring Lawn Prevention
When we say “early spring” in Florida, that’s usually sometime in late February or early March. It can vary, but think of it as the time when warming trends begin.
- Clean Up Yard Debris: Leaves, branches, and other yard debris provide moisture and nesting places for pests (and encourage the growth of fungal diseases). By letting it linger, you could be allowing a lawn pest issue to take hold. Rake everything up into bags or have it hauled away.
- Dethatching (If Necessary): Thatch is a layer of dead grass and decaying plant matter that builds up where the soil meets the grass blade. A little bit of thatch is normal, but more than half an inch will serve as an invitation to lawn pests. To do this yourself, you’ll need a special thatching rake or automatic dethatcher. We also provide dethatching as part of our expert lawn service.
- Soil Test: Poor soil pH and nutrient levels can weaken grass and leave it more susceptible to damage from diseases and lawn pests. You can get a soil probe or soil testing kit online or at your local garden store. Follow the instructions on the box to determine the pH level. Matching your soil pH level to the ideal level for your grass type will lead to a healthier, more pest-resistant lawn.
- Aeration (If needed): Over time, your soil may become compacted, which can impact your grass roots’ ability to take in water and nutrients. By aerating it, you improve air and water circulation, leading to healthier roots that are more resistant to pests. Aeration is pretty much poking holes in your soil to increase circulation. It’s simple, but can be hard work – and you need to have the right equipment. We also offer professional aeration services as part of our lawn care.
- Inspect for early signs of pest activity: You may start seeing warning signs of emerging lawn pests in early spring. Look for small mounds and raised tunnels, which can indicate the presence of pests like grubs and mole crickets.
Mid-Spring Lawn Pest Prevention
Lawn pests in Florida can be relentless. Make sure you follow our early spring tips and be sure to follow up with these late-spring lawn pest prevention strategies four to eight weeks later:
- Pre-Emergent Weed Control: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weeds like crabgrass. Weeds can weaken your lawn and attract pests.
- Mowing: Start mowing your lawn, but don’t cut it too short. A higher cut encourages deeper roots and shades out weeds. Follow the “one-third rule” and never cut off more than one-third of the grass blade at any one time. For St. Augustine grass, which is common in Florida lawns, pay close attention to mowing height, as stress can make them more vulnerable to chinch bugs.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer based on your soil test results. A healthy lawn is better able to resist pests. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can encourage pest populations.
- Grub Prevention: If you’ve had grub problems in the past, consider applying a preventative grub control product. Grubs feed on the roots of your lawn, causing dead patches.
- Chinch Bug Watch: Especially important for St. Augustine species of grass. Look for yellowing/browning patches, particularly in sunny areas.
- Sod Webworm/Armyworm Check: Look for chewed grass blades, and small brown patches.
- Fire Ant Control: Address fire ant mounds as they appear, to prevent lawn damage and stinging hazards.
- Inspect for Pests: Keep an eye out for signs of pests, such as: Brown patches, Holes in the lawn, Increased bird activity (they may be eating grubs), Visible insects, Spongy feeling turf.
- Watering: Water deeply and infrequently. This encourages deep root growth and makes your lawn less susceptible to pests and drought. Avoid overwatering, which creates ideal conditions for many pests and fungal diseases.
- Try Irrigation Services: Water your lawn perfectly every time with a professionally installed irrigation system. Our experienced technicians have the expertise to handle even the most complex systems, considering local climate, precipitation, and ground composition, as well as coordinating with your property’s plumbing and electrical system.
Should You Use DIY Pesticide or Insecticide for Lawn Pests?
We don’t recommend it as they can be highly damaging to the lawn or other surrounding plant life if used incorrectly. If it gets to the point where you’re considering using these kinds of DIY treatments on your grass, we recommend calling one of our professional lawn pest control technicians instead.
We can help make sure your treatments are applied where they’ll have the most impact and the least potential to harm people, pets, or other plants.
Tips for Natural Pest Control:
- Maintain a healthy lawn: A thick, healthy lawn is your best defense against pests.
- Encourage beneficial insects: Ladybugs, lacewings, and other beneficial insects eat many common lawn pests.
Save Time With The Lawn Pest Experts
If you suspect a lawn pest infestation or just want to enjoy a healthy and beautiful lawn, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced lawn care pest control professionals.
Contact us today for a comprehensive lawn inspection and personalized treatment plan. Let us help you protect your investment and create a pest-free outdoor oasis.