Cutworms, sod webworms, aphids, chinch bugs, and other blade defoliating and blade sucking insects can be detected by the flotation method. Use a large coffee can with both ends removed and sink it into the turf. Mix one ounce of liquid dish washing detergent into one gallon of water and pour the soapy water into the container. In a few minutes, the soapy water will irritate the insect, the insect will release its grasp, and the insect will float. Root-feeding insects such as white grubs and billbugs will not respond to the flotation method.
Grubs feed by separating grass blades.
Sample grubs and billbugs by looking for insects in grass roots and in the soil layer beneath the roots. If infestations are heavy, the grubs will have removed most of the grass roots and the turf will roll back like a carpet. IPM practices conserve beneficial insects and promote pesticide usage at the vulnerable stage in the pest s life history. Determine changes in cultural practices that can increase turf health and vigor. Determine what is an acceptable threshold of pest damage.