Green Lawn Insects

Types

• Caterpillars such as the fall armyworm are commonly found in grass and shrubs. This green worm is usually seen during the hot, dry summer months and cool, wet spring months. Green grasshoppers are especially damaging to lawn grass. Grasshoppers feed on grass, plants, vegetables and even weeds. The greenbug aphid is a tiny, green insect that feeds on grass blades. Infestation kills portions of grass, causing insects to feed in healthy grass areas.

Symptoms

• Caterpillars cause holes in grass, which grow as the caterpillar reaches maturity. Green frass on grass is an indication of caterpillar infestation. Grasshoppers feed on grass, causing dieback in large patches. Greenbug aphids feed on grass blades by sucking out plant juices, turning them yellow. Eventually, the grass turns rusty and the grass slowly dies.

Control

• Hand-picking caterpillars from grass controls light infestations. Insecticides are recommended for heavy infestations. Grasshoppers are often controlled with baits and insecticides. Greenbug aphids are often eliminated by natural predatory insects and insecticides. Chemical controls are recommended when damage is significant.