Chinch bug damage is greatest during the summer when hot, dry conditions exist. Except for southern Florida where chinch bugs are active year around, southern chinch bugs overwinter as eggs. The eggs are found inserted in crevices at grass nodes or between overlapping leaf blades. Females deposit 100-300 eggs. Eggs hatch in spring which release nymphs to feed and develop for 2-6 weeks.
Adults cause little damage, but new generations of nymphs increase the feeding damage.
Good cultural management can reduce the need for chemicals. Keep thatch to a minimum. Thatch provides protection for chinch bugs and chemically interferes with many insecticides. Be sure to observe proper mowing, fertilization, watering, and specific lawn care practices for St. Augustinegrass to minimize thatch. The 'Raleigh' variety of St. Augustinegrass is highly susceptible to chinch bug damage.