Fall Armyworm Alert

The fall armyworm, a major pest, is once again on the move. These striped caterpillars feed on a variety of grasses—especially well-maintained bermudagrass—and can quickly damage lawns, golf courses, and crops.

Armyworms often “march” across turf in large numbers and are easy to spot feeding during the day. Adults are ash-gray moths whose eggs hatch within days, producing larvae that mature in 2–3 weeks. Multiple generations can occur each year, with moths migrating north from Florida and Texas.

Birds, wasps, and even fire ants can be your first clue that fall armyworms are in the yard. Flocks feeding on turf, wasps hunting on the ground, or green pellet-like droppings often signal an infestation.

If you suspect activity, try a soap flush—mix 2 tablespoons of dish soap in 1 gallon of water and pour over a 1–2 sq. ft. area. Larvae will surface within minutes. Also inspect light-colored surfaces like leaves, fence posts, or goal posts for egg masses.

If treatment is needed, mow early or late in the day before applying insecticide. Lightly water a few hours beforehand to draw larvae near the surface. Apply insecticides early morning or evening when larvae are most active, and avoid irrigation for 24 hours after spraying.

Home lawn products often contain synthetic pyrethroids such as bifenthrin, permethrin, or lambda-cyhlathrin, available in granular or ready-to-use sprays. Always follow label directions for application rates, timing, and safety. For detailed recommendations, contact your local Extension office.