Treatment for Mole Crickets

The experts at Superior Sod have uncovered a serious problem in Porter’s Pointe: damaged areas from mole crickets. To verify our suspicions, we sent photos to two other turf specialists.  

Our observations were confirmed.

Widespread Damage

Adult mole crickets are a challenge to eliminate right now. You’ll recognize them if you spot the following:

• Light grayish brown color
• Length up to 1.5 inches
• Wings allowing up to 40 feet of travel

Mole crickets feed during the evening on the roots of untreated Bermuda grass. Here are details about the extensive damage, which they can cause:

• Initial dead trails between 1 to 2 inches wide
• Power to destroy up to 2 square yards
• Ground surface gnawing 1/2 inch down

During this path of destruction, mole crickets will feed on the upper roots and then target the crown area, which kills the turf grass. Our current high heat and drought conditions widen their “kill zone.” During the day, you’ll even find these relentless creatures working their way into:

• Cooler mulched in garden beds
• Driveways and sidewalks
• Soil as far as 6 inches down

Effective Solutions

To stop mole crickets from eating through your lawn and garden, you can use an insecticide now. Our top recommendations are from Farmer Supply on Oleander Drive, which carries Top Shelf and Talstar. The latter is the least expensive and needs a good watering.

Right now, you can’t destroy these devils, but you can slow them down. Next spring, retreat your lawn every 3 weeks starting in mid-March, when the night time temperatures are in the 60 degree range. Then, continue this process through mid-June, and treat your lawn every spring for mole crickets.

Contact Our Experts for More Treatment Advice

Do you have questions about treating mole crickets or the fungus called dollar spot? With 44 years of experience growing specialty crops like turf grass, produce, strawberries, we offer reliable advice. Contact a USDA registered soil scientist who has worked with many farmers to increase their production!