As with weeds, a healthy, properly maintained turf will minimize most insect problems. Two common insect pests in lawns are white grubs and chinch bugs. White grubs are the larval stage of several types of beetles. Grubs chew on the roots of turf and can sometimes kill entire sections of lawn. Apply Milky Spore, a bacteria, or Grub Guard, beneficial nematodes, to control.
Chinch bugs appear during the summer months.
They suck the grass blades to withdraw the moisture and inject a toxic saliva that can then kill the grass. Severe infestations can be controlled by spraying a quart of premixed Insecticidal Soap with a tablespoon of isopropyl alcohol. Spray the lawn every 3 to 4 days for two weeks. You may actually increase your insect problems rather than solve them. Diseases Lawn diseases are difficult to recognize because the symptoms often resemble nutrient deficiencies and insect damage.