Maintaining a healthy lawn in Utah can be a challenge, not just because of the unique climate but also due to the wide variety of lawn pests that can invade your lawn. These pests can cause significant damage if not identified and managed early. Understanding the common pests in Utah lawns and how to spot them early can save you time, money, and frustration. Here are some of the most common pests in Utah.
Sod Webworms
Sod webworms are one of the most common pests in Utah especially during the warmer months. These start as tiny larvae that eventually grow into moths. They feed on grass blades that can create irregular patches of damage. They tend to burrow into the soil during the day and come out at night to feed making them difficult to spot. However, one of the signs of sod webworm is the appearance of brown dead patches of grass that seem to appear over night. If you notice moths flying around your lawn in the evening and early morning that’s a sign that the larvae might be active.
Grubs
Grubs are larvae that are also very common. These larvae feed on the roots of your grass causing it to become loose and spongy. When it gets severe the lawn will even pull up easily at the root similar to how it is when you pull up carpet. While grubs are most active during late summer and early fall it is important to catch them early to prevent extensive damage. If you notice your lawn has patches that feel spongy or seem to be wilting or dying, grubs might be the cause. The easiest way to identify them is to pull back the grass to see if there are any C-shaped white larvae in the soil.
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of grass blades leading to yellowing or stunted growth. These pests can cause significant damage over time especially when in large numbers. In Utah these are most commonly found in the spring and early summer when the weather is warm but not too hot. These are tiny and difficult to see without close inspection but they tend to cluster on the underside of grass blades or along the stems. You can also look for yellow or discolored patches on your lawn as well as a sticky residue in the grass.
When it comes to lawn pests in Utah the key is to detect them early before the damage gets extensive. Use this list of most commonly found pests and how to identify them to help manage the pests in your lawn this year. If you have any questions or would like Lawn Doctor to come take a look at your pest problem, reach out for a free consultation.
