Armyworms: The Lawn-Eating Invaders & How to Stop Them
If you’ve ever woken up to find your once-green lawn suddenly brown and chewed down, armyworms may be the culprits. These tiny caterpillars can destroy large areas of turf almost overnight — especially in the warm, humid months of Florida.
What Are Armyworms?
Armyworms are the larval (caterpillar) stage of a moth, and they get their name because they move in large groups — like an army — feeding on grass blades as they go. The fall armyworm is the most common type we see here in Florida lawns.
How to Spot an Armyworm Problem
Early detection is key. Look for:
- Grass blades that look chewed or ragged
- Brown or thinning patches that appear suddenly
- Increased bird activity — birds often feast on the worms
- Caterpillars on the soil surface early in the morning or evening, usually greenish to brown with a faint stripe down their back
You can even test for them by mixing 1 tablespoon of dish soap per gallon of water and pouring it over a small area of the lawn. If worms are present, they’ll wriggle to the surface within minutes.
Why Armyworms Are a Big Problem
Armyworms feed aggressively on warm-season grasses like St. Augustine, Bermuda, and Zoysia. If left untreated, they can strip an entire lawn in just a few days — leaving your grass thin, brown, and stressed.
How to Treat for Armyworms
- Act Fast: The sooner you treat, the better your lawn’s chance of recovery.
- Professional Insect Treatment: At Westfall’s, we apply targeted insect control products that stop armyworms quickly and safely.
- Lawn Recovery: After treatment, we recommend watering your lawn and following proper mowing and maintenance to help it bounce back.
- Preventive Care: Ongoing monitoring and seasonal treatments can help prevent armyworms and other damaging insects in the future.
Westfall’s Armyworm Defense
At Westfall’s Lawn & Pest, our team is trained to spot early signs of armyworm damage and take swift action. We use professional-grade, eco-friendly products to control infestations while keeping your lawn and landscape healthy year-round.
Think your lawn might have armyworms?
Don’t wait for the damage to spread — contact Westfall’s Lawn & Pest today for an expert inspection and treatment plan to protect your turf.