When turf damage is noticed and before applying pesticides, make sure insects and not diseases or some abiotic factor are the cause of the damage. Turf damage may be caused by fungal diseases, abiotic conditions, and improper maintenance. Find the insect Be sure to examine an area of turf that contains living as well as damaged grass. The most serious insects of turf feed on living turf and are not found in dead areas. Insects found in completely dead patches generally are not responsible for the damage.
Methods are available for discovering insects in turf.
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.