Several gardeners have called about moths flying in their yards. Sod webworms are the larvae of this small brown moth. During spring, they transform into the adult moth. They mate, lay eggs that turn into the larvae, pupal and adult stages.
The sod webworms’ larvae live in tunnels on the soil surface, and chew off grass blades and return to the tunnel to eat the foliage, hiding in the crevices of the blades of grass, using the grass as a cover, and return to the tunnel to eat the foliage. Lawns are most susceptible in July and August when temperatures are hot and lawns are not growing vigorously.
To control sod webworms, use an insecticide; spray or a granular. Granular insecticides are easier to use and are more thorough. Orthene, Seven, and BT are recommended.
More questions? Call the Extension Phone Room at 936-539-7824.
