Pest Control Jacksonville
Insect pests can be considered major tree and turfgrass killers to even those of relatively minor importance. There are many different categories of insects that can damage your landscaping.
They range from twig, stem and root boring insects, to sap sucking and defoliating insects. The following are some of the more common pests we see in Florida.
One of the more common pests found in Northeast Florida are "grubs." Grubs are larvae that when hatched, bore through wood and turfgrass. Depending on the species of the borer, development of the egg to adult stage takes from four months to four years!
Chinch bugs can be very destructive and are so small and inconspicuous that they can literally destroy a lawn without ever being observed! They are most active when temperatures are in the 70's and activity reaches a peak during extended periods of hot, dry weather. You will notice chinch bugs starting near the reflected heat of walks and streets, but will soon spread out into the grass. Signs may be confused of as drought, because the grass turns from a pale yellow to a lifeless tan.
Sod Webworm
The sod webworm is the larval stage of the tan or buff-colored lawn moth. Lawn moths are commonly seen in early morning flitting above the turf in short zig-zag patterns. As the moths fly, they drop eggs that hatch into larvae in just 6-10 days. The tiny larvae start feeding on the grass blades and building silk-linked tunnels in thatch and debris near the soil surface. In North Florida, sod webworms can be a problem starting in July and continuing until October.
If you have a pest problem, watch carefully, usually nature will take care of problem. If not, than treat with appropriate pesticide or call your local pest control company.
Special Note: The use of pesticides in Florida has been both condemned and blessed during the past several years. A state law was passed restricting the use of certain materials to only licensed persons. The restricted pesticides include those that are highly poisonous and require special precautions during and after their use.