Quite early for Sod Webworms but they have been observed in several locations throughout Pinellas County. This is a strong indicator that this will be a boom year for Sod Webworms.

Biology

Sod Webworms often damage but not destroy a lawn. Their feeding habits are more akin to mowing practices than say Chinch Bugs which suck the sap and kill St Augustine. However, Sod Webworms left unchecked can completely defoliate part or all of your lawn causing severe damage with slow recovery. Should you notice circular areas of the lawn that appear as if they have been mowed, you probably have Sod Webworms. Close examination of the area will show chewed leaves and if you spread the canopy a bit, you will find the frase (droppings) and maybe even a Sod Webworm in the grass.

What to Do

Since they are voracious feeders and small, killing off sod webworms is matter of spraying the damaged area with just about any insecticide and allow the Sod webworms to feed overnight. Soon the damaged area will return to its normal height and recover completely. If you are a subscriber to A Promised Land Lawn Spraying, the likelihood of having Sod Webworms is low since I treat for them on a regular basis. However should you be suspicious of a spot, feel free to call for a free evaluation and treatment.

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