What indicates sod webworm damage in a lawn?

Sod webworm damage in a lawn is primarily identified by small dead spots in the grass. These pests, which are the larvae of moths, feed on grass blades, leading to localized areas of dead or dying grass. As they consume the grass, you may notice these spots, which can vary in size but typically are small and scattered across the lawn.

The presence of these dead patches is a clear indication of pest activity, as sod webworms create a characteristic pattern of damage. The healthy grass around these spots remains green, leading to a stark contrast that highlights the affected areas. Monitoring for these signs is essential for effective pest management.

Other options do present symptoms that could indicate various lawn issues but do not specifically reflect the typical signs associated with sod webworms. For example, wilting plants could suggest issues related to water stress or disease rather than direct pest damage. Excessive growth may relate to over-fertilization or other nutrient imbalances, while brown patches of soil might hint at soil compaction or drought stress rather than being directly tied to sod webworm infestation. Understanding these distinct indicators can help in identifying and managing sod webworm-related issues effectively.