Sod web-worms can be highly destructive to lawns. It is during the larvae or worm stage that the damage occurs. The adult, or moth stage, does no damage to the turf, plants or clothing. The damage occurs as irregular brown patches. The most severe damage is in July and August and is often mistaken for heat or drought stress. Heavy infestations can destroy a lawn in a few days.
Did you know that:
- There are several species of sod web-worms.
- Sod web-worms prefer hot, dry, sunny areas.
- They vary in color and are about 3/4 – 1″ long.
- The worms are covered in fine hairs.
- The larvae have dark spots running down its body.
- The larvae feed at night on the upper root system (stems and blades).
- In the adult stage they are often referred to as “lawn moths”.
- These moths are pale brown to grayish in color.
- The moth has 2 snout-like projections coming from its head.
- Their wingspan is about 3/4 -1″.
- When at rest, they fold their wings around their body.
- During the day the moths hide in sheltered areas, such as shrubbery.
- They can be seen at dusk flying just over the turf, and in a zig-zag fashion.
- The female can lay up to 200 eggs.
- She scatters her eggs over the lawn as she flies.
- Eggs hatch in about 7-10 days.
- Multiple generations can occur on an annual basis.
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