Guest or Pest: Armyworms

What Is an Armyworm?

Believe it or not, armyworms are not worms at all; they’re actually a type of caterpillar! Armyworms are the larval stage of an armyworm moth (Spodoptera frugiperda), which is native to North America and can typically be found east of the Rocky Mountains, reaching northward into southern Canada. 

 

Armyworms are green or brown in color and have a smooth, segmented body that can grow up to 2 inches long. They are identified by a distinguishing dark line running down the middle of their back. The adult moths have brown-ish gray forewings with patterned spots and white hindwings.

Guest or Pest?

There’s no doubt about it. Armyworms are pests. They are called armyworms because of the way they move across lawns in large groups or "armies,” devouring plants as they go. They’re highly destructive to crops, particularly turfgrass, corn, and wheat. That’s bad news for your lawn!

Armyworm damage can be difficult to identify and may become a significant problem if left undiagnosed. If your lawn has small brown or dead patches, it could be a sign of armyworm activity. If you suspect armyworms, there is one simple test you can use to draw them out: mix water with dish soap, pour it over the suspected area, and watch closely to see if armyworms emerge from the grass. 

Eliminate Pests with Mosquito Hero (& Our Friends at Weed Man!)

Once a lawn is infested with armyworms, these pests can quickly destroy it, and professional treatment may be necessary to eliminate the problem. If you suspect armyworm activity or damage in your lawn, our friends over at Weed Man can help! Ask your local Weed Man professional about the best form of treatment that is available to improve the conditions of your lawn.

When it comes to dangerous, harmful pests like ticks and mosquitoes, you can reclaim your outdoor space with Mosquito Hero. Our mosquito control services give you custom, targeted control and monthly service from a trained professional, effectively reducing the mosquito population in your yard. And our tick control service aims to eliminate these pests from your property and prevent further tick activity.