Armyworm Alert for Georgia Lawns

What Are Armyworms and Why Georgia

Fall armyworms are caterpillars that feed on grass blades, chewing lawns down to the soil surface. They migrate north from tropical regions each year and hit Georgia hard between August and October. Middle Georgia’s warm, humid conditions are ideal for armyworm populations. They can go from invisible to devastating in less than two days when populations explode.

Signs of Armyworm Damage

The first sign is often increased bird activity on your lawn — birds feed on the caterpillars. Grass develops brown patches that spread rapidly and look scalped. Look closely at the edge of damaged areas in early morning or late evening when armyworms are most active. They hide in thatch during the heat of the day. A soapy water flush test can confirm their presence.

• Mix 2 tablespoons of dish soap in a gallon of water and pour over a 2-foot square area.
• Armyworms will surface within 5 minutes if present.
• Check during early morning or evening when caterpillars are actively feeding.
• Increased bird activity is often the first visible sign of infestation.

Treatment Options for Active Infestations

Speed is everything with armyworms. Once you confirm them, treat immediately. Professional-grade insecticides like bifenthrin provide fast knockdown. Apply in the late afternoon when armyworms begin feeding. Water the product in lightly to move it into the thatch layer where caterpillars hide during the day. Over-the-counter products work on small areas but rarely provide the coverage needed for full-yard infestations.

Recovery After Armyworm Damage

Bermuda grass recovers well from armyworm damage if the root system and stolons are intact. Water consistently and apply a balanced fertilizer once the threat has passed. Full recovery usually takes 3 to 4 weeks for bermuda. Centipede and zoysia recover more slowly. If damage reached the crown of the plant, re-sodding may be necessary in the worst areas.