Army Worm Treatment in the Cayman Islands

Armyworms are destructive pests that consume turf grasses, but they'll feed on vegetables and other plants when food is scarce. They eventually become moths, but it's the worm-like larvae stage that cause the most damage. When large numbers are present in your lawn, armyworms may seem to march side-by-side like an army battalion. Heavy infestations can destroy lawn grasses in just a few days.

Armyworm Identification: Several species of armyworms affect lawns and crops. In the larval stage, they typically measure 1 1/2 to 2 inches long. Their heads may vary in color, but they have a distinctive inverted "Y" mark. Armyworm bodies have a series of green, yellow, red or brown stripes down their sides and backs. Adult armyworm moths measure about 1 1/2 inches across. Their front wings are dark gray with light and dark splotches, but their hind wings are pale gray-white.

Signs/Damage of Armyworms: Small brown lawn patches are often the first clue of an armyworm problem. The pests may leave grass blades ragged or chews just the green layer, creating a transparent windowpane look. The grass may be sheared to the ground, creating bare spots in your lawn.    

Tips:

• Armyworms feed around the clock, but their most active times are early morning and late evening. Time your treatment to coincide with activity for maximum results.
• Armyworms often attract birds and rodents that feed on larvae hidden in your turf. Large numbers of probing birds or areas of scratched, disturbed lawn may indicate armyworms.
• Contact Pestkil for professional help.