Nematode Problems in Home Lawns Nematodes are major pests of lawns throughout the Southeastern United States. They are microscopic roundworms that live in the soil and on plant roots.
Nematodes are particularily a problem in areas with warm temperatures and sandy soils.
The root system becomes damaged to the point where the lawn cannot properly absorb water and nutrients. The lawn becomes thin and weak, making it much more susceptible to other stresses, such as drought. The lawn may appear yellow, weak and slow to grow. Areas of the lawn may begin to thin, allowing weeds to invade easily. During periods of drought or mild stress, the lawn may wilt.