Keep Pesky Insects Out of Your Lawn This Season

Here at Hornes Pest Control, we know how frustrating it can be when insects invade and damage your beautiful lawn. From grubs munching on grass roots to chinch bugs sucking the life out of grass blades, dealing with lawn pests requires diligence and prevention. As pest control experts serving Augusta, GA for over 50 years, we want to provide the best guidance on keeping your yard insect-free all season long.

 

Practice Smart Watering Habits

Too much or too little lawn watering can actually attract unwanted lawn invaders. Overwatering creates ideal moist conditions for pests like chinch bugs and grubs to thrive. On the other hand, drought-stressed grass is more vulnerable and appealing to insects.

We recommend watering your lawn just once or twice a week, providing about 1-1.5 inches per watering session. Check the depth with a rain gauge. This will keep your grass healthy without allowing excess moisture for pests. Water early in the morning to limit evaporation.

 

Fertilize at Strategic Times

Proper lawn fertilization makes grass less tasty and inviting to insects. But incorrect fertilizer use can fuel pest problems. Avoid over-fertilizing, which stresses grass and makes it insect candy. We suggest 2-3 light fertilizer applications spaced 6-8 weeks apart, using slow-release organic formulas.

Strategically fertilize in early spring, early summer, and fall. Spring and fall are key root growth times when grass needs nutrients. Avoid summer fertilizing which can exacerbate drought, disease, and insect damage.

Maintain Proper Mowing and Aeration

Long leaf blades allow more photosynthesis, deeper roots, and increased insect resistance. Raise your mower height to 3 inches and cut no more than 1/3 of the blade length per mowing session. This prevents lawn stress and vulnerability.

Annual aeration also helps grass better access nutrients and oxygen. Rent an aerator or hire a pro to punch holes 6 inches apart across your lawn. Fall is the best time for thick root regrowth before winter.

 

Detect and Address Any Pest Problems ASAP

If you spot brown patches, dying grass, or grub worms in your lawn, act immediately. Applying insecticide without identifying the culprit rarely works.

At the first sign of lawn trouble, call Hornes Pest Control for expert evaluation and precision treatment. We determine the specific pest based on damage patterns and lawn conditions. Then we custom formulate a prevention or elimination strategy using the safest, most effective methods.

Whether you need preventative care or urgent pest elimination, Hornes Pest Control has over 50 years of experience promoting lush, verdant, insect-free lawns. Contact us today or call (706) 480-9359 for personalized lawn care!

FAQs About Preventing Lawn Insects

What are the most common lawn pests in Augusta, GA?

Some of the most destructive lawn critters we treat include grubs, chinch bugs, armyworms, and sod webworms. Fire ants can also damage lawns while being a nuisance.

When should I apply insecticide to my lawn?

Applying insecticide randomly without identifying the pest is rarely effective. Contact Hornes Pest Control at the first sign of lawn damage for evaluation and precise treatment.

How often should I have my lawn inspected?

We recommend a full lawn inspection 2-3 times per year in early spring, mid summer, and early fall. Catching issues early is key! Existing customers also get regular preventative treatments.

What signs indicate I have unwelcome lawn guests?

Watch for areas of dying grass, irregular dry patches, grub worms in the soil, insects flying up when walking across the yard, or small piles of soil or grass roots.

Will lawn fertilizer and weed control also manage insects?

Fertilizer supports thicker, healthier grass but doesn’t control existing pests which require specialized insecticide applications based on the intruder. Contact us for custom lawn care!