Army Worms
Army Worm Control Services
Appearance
Army worms are the larval stage of certain moths, most commonly the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda). They are green, brown or black with white stripes and can grow up to 1.5 inches long.
Behavior, Diet & Habits
Army worms are destructive pests that feed on a wide variety of grasses and crops including lawns, pastures, corn, sorghum and rice. In Texas, they most often infest in late summer and early fall, especially after rain. They feed in groups and can defoliate large areas of vegetation in a “marching” pattern across fields or turfgrass—hence the name “army worm.”
Signs of Army Worm Infestation in Texas
- Ragged or chewed leaves on turf or crops
- Large numbers of larvae visible in the early morning or late evening
- Brown patches that spread quickly in lawns or fields
- Birds feeding in affected areas
Life Cycle
The fall armyworm goes through complete metamorphosis with egg, larval, pupal and adult stages. In Texas, we have multiple generations per year due to the warm climate. Adult moths lay eggs in clusters on leaves or stems. After hatching, larvae feed intensively before pupating in the soil.
Control and Prevention
- Regularly inspect lawns and fields especially in late summer and after rain
- Keep your grass healthy through proper watering and fertilization to resist damage
- If you find infestation, apply approved insecticides for caterpillars in the early instar stages
- Encourage natural predators like birds and beneficial insects to help reduce army worm populations
Who do we call?
For army worm management in Texas, contact your local iPest Pros office for guidance and treatment options specific to your area like in Waco/Temple/Killeen, Bryan/College Station, Austin, and San Antonio areas.
