MANAGING AND RECOVERING FROM CHINCH BUG DAMAGE

USE RESISTANT TURFGRASSES

Overseed areas that have historically been damaged by chinch bugs with perennial ryegrasses, fine fescues and tall fescues that contain entophytic fungi. Endophytic grasses deter chinch bug feeding.

USE PEST CONTROL

Chinch bugs are rather easy to detect in turf and targeted insecticide applications can be applied to reduce populations which appear to be building to damaging levels.

Talk to your local Nutri-Lawn about Integrated Pest Management principles effective for controlling chinch bugs.

RECOVERY FROM DAMAGE

Slightly damaged turf will recover rather quickly if lightly fertilized and watered regularly. Heavily infested lawns may have significant plant mortality because of the toxic effect of chinch bug saliva and reseeding will be necessary.

Major damage caused by chinch bugs is often mistaken for drought stress and not treated accordingly. It’s important to identify, treat and eliminate chinch bug infestations before they multiply and chinch bug damage becomes extensive to a lawn.

Insecticides to Protect Your Lawn

At this point in the season, you probably see constant growth and activity in your yard. When you sit outside, you can hear the birds singing and the bees humming. Some of the insects are beneficial to your garden, whereas others can literally wreak havoc with your home.

For example, if you ever needed to deal with carpenter bees, you may feel like your property is under siege. These massive devils actually have the power to make piles of sawdust out of the old wood posts on your porch. Like other trouble makers, they can interfere with your feeling of serenity outdoors–and force you to take serious action before they demolish your home.

Defend Your Greenery With Insecticides

Some homeowners resist the idea of using insecticides, which often becomes unavoidable when you are struggling with an infestation. To help you deal with destructive bugs and critters, here are some ways to protect your lawn and garden:

• Mole crickets and grubs: Through the end of June, use 40-pound bags of DUOCIDE (Carbaryl) to treat 5 to 10,000 square feet.
• Chinch bugs: From July to September, pick up a 25-pound bag of UP-Star Gold (Talstar) to cover a 5,000 square foot area.
• Armyworms: During the next few months, a 40-pound bag of DUOCIDE (Carbaryl) will protect 5 to 10,000 square feet.
• Fire ant mounds: All year round, a 1-pound bag Acephate “97 Up” should do the trick.
• Other pests like moles: Whenever you see these critters,     a hose end applicator of Liquid Fence treats 10,000 square feet.

Contact Our Knowledgeable Experts With More Questions
Do you need more advice about dealing with bugs, which are destroying your greenery? Our knowledgeable experts are committed to educating others and sharing our tips. If you have any questions, contact Superior Sod & Garden Supplies now.