Lawn Insect Control & Turf Pest Management

Several turf-feeding insects are known to cause lawn damage throughout Southern Ontario. The most common include surface-feeding pests that attack grass blades and stems, as well as root-feeding insects that damage the lawn below the soil surface.

Because different insects emerge at different times of the season, infestations can occur from late spring through early fall. Proper identification is important, as treatment methods and timing vary depending on the pest involved.

Lawn insect damage is often mistaken for drought stress because both can cause yellow or brown patches. However, there are key differences.

Insect damage typically appears as irregular patches that continue expanding even with proper watering. You may also notice thinning turf, grass that pulls up easily, or increased animal activity digging in the lawn.

A professional inspection can confirm whether the cause is environmental stress or active turf pests.

Treatment timing depends on the specific insect and its life cycle. Some pests are best treated preventatively before damage occurs, while others require curative applications once activity is detected.

In general:

• Late spring targets early surface feeders

• Early to mid-summer addresses peak feeding activity

• Late summer into fall focuses on root-feeding larvae

Monitoring throughout the season ensures treatments are applied at the most effective stage.

Professional lawn insect control treatments are applied using regulated products and label-directed application methods designed for residential environments.

Once treatments have dried and settled, lawns can typically be used as normal. Your technician will always provide post-treatment guidance, including any temporary precautions if required.

Safety, effectiveness, and environmental responsibility are built into every application.

While no lawn is completely immune to insect activity, strong, well-maintained turf is far more resistant to damage.

Healthy lawns benefit from:

• Deeper root systems

• Improved drought tolerance

• Thicker grass density

• Reduced stress conditions

Integrated lawn care — including fertilization, overseeding, and proper mowing — helps create an environment that is less attractive and less vulnerable to destructive turf pests.