Treating Common Turf Diseases in 2026

Fall armyworms are surface feeders. They may conceal in the heat of the day, however they live above ground and feed on the yard blades. You will not need to dig in the soil to discover them. Fall armyworms are tiny and green with a black head when they hatch, however they grow quickly and end up being darker with age.

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Carefully scout to figure out the number, size, and circulation of fall armyworms and the condition of the turfgrass. Small armyworms (greenish in color) are much simpler to control than caterpillars nearing their mature length of 1.5 to 2 inches.

Cut high turfgrass before treatment to improve insecticide coverage. Irrigate gently a number of hours before treatment to increase larval activity on the soil surface.

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If there is no quick control of fall armyworms after applying a pyrethroid, think about using a different class of insecticide, or employ a lawn care company to apply a chlorantraniliprole or tetraniliprole substance. Azadirachtin insecticides (Neem oil) can supply control of little larvae and are certified organic.