TURF CATERPILLAR SOLUTIONS Turf caterpillars, such as fall armyworms, sod webworms and cutworms, are the larvae of several moth species. These lepidopterous pests can severely damage turfgrass as they feed on stems, crowns and leaves after emerging from the egg. However, these pests can be controlled season-long with one application of Acelepryn ® insecticide while simultaneously preventing grubs and billbugs.
SYMPTOMS AND ACTIVITY Evidence of caterpillar damage is noted by brown patches in golf course turf. Upon closer inspection, the areas will look grazed or scalped, and grass blades will show chewing damage. • As caterpillars feed, populations will increase and cause the affected areas to rapidly increase in size. • For optimum control, scouting for small instar larvae is best to determine application timing.
Fall armyworms are especially destructive to turfgrass as an “army” of the caterpillars can quickly devour large areas of turf down to the soil. • After overwintering, outbreaks can occur as early as April or May and the insects migrate northward in search of suitable sites to lay eggs. • Adult moths lay clusters of eggs on fence posts, flag sticks, tree leaves and bushes. • Once the larvae hatch, they move into adjacent turf to feed. • Several generations of eggs can be laid throughout the summer, which then quickly hatch to damage turf into the fall, so it is important to use a product that can provide several weeks of residual control.
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