Why You Need Insect Management

Posted on: Jul 28, 2023Raunie

It is always good to know about the options available in the lawn care world. This helps you get a program that your specific lawn needs so you not only save money but also limit the amount of product going into the ground. The most prevalent summer insect that we battle with is chinch bugs. They do cause a lot of damage but it’s easy to repair provided this pesky bug was caught early enough to reduce the long-term stress on the lawn. If Chinch bugs are not addressed quickly enough, you could lose your lawn within a matter of weeks. Because these bugs suck the nutrients right out of the grass blade those areas won’t repair themselves naturally once they have been eliminated. A little work on our part goes a long way towards bringing back your lawn into the lush, healthy state it was prior to the chinch bugs moving in and setting up shop.

Long Term Repercussions

There are also long-term repercussions to not treating or addressing the damage as we see it throughout the lawn. The earlier you tackle the situation, the less long-term damage you will experience throughout your lawn.

Bare spots or Uneven grass

Once Chinch bugs are addressed and eliminated, you will experience bare or yellow spots that remain on the lawn. The best plan of attack is to apply soil and seed to the affected areas to ensure that they grow back thick and healthy.

Increase of weeds

Because Chinch bugs essentially eat existing grass it weakens certain areas. Weeds thrive in weaker areas of the lawn. Don’t be alarmed when you see these areas but it is important to note that they will need to be replenished with new seedlings to prevent these weeds from permanently establishing their home there.

Increase the risk of disease or fungus

A thick, healthy lawn that is bug-free builds a natural immunity to lawn disease and fungus. So, just like the other issues that can come from Chinch bug damage, the solution is the same – overseed! But it is also important to note that fungus and disease also can come from incorrect watering habits. The best time to water your lawn is always between 5 am -9 am three times per week.  

Decrease in soil quality

The more your soil is exposed to the hot summer sun, the more natural, beneficial nutrients are drawn out of the soil. It is always good to replenish your soil every few years to keep these nutrients feeding your lawn between lawn care visits.

What Can You Do?

The steps are easy: Treat the insects, keep the area watered more than the rest of the grass, and overseed the affected areas to keep the lawn thick and healthy. By following these simple steps and partnering with your local lawn care company your lawn will thank you!

Conclusion

While Mother Nature has made it rather difficult this year to maintain a thick, green, and healthy lawn she has also created the perfect environment for these bugs to thrive. While these pesky bugs can do a lot of damage, a quick reaction and the right steps to repair the damage can save your lawn and bring it back to its lush and green state.