Fall Armyworm

Fall armyworms are caterpillars that range from 1-1.5” long. They can range anywhere in color from green and yellow to brown and gray and some can be nearly black. They have a wide black stripe running down each side of their body. One easily distinguishing characteristic is a light-colored, upside-down “Y” marking on their head.

Fall armyworms will feed on most warm-season grasses, however Bermudagrass is their primary host.

Fall armyworms feed on the lush, green foliage of grasses. Initial damage resembles drought stress, but as they continue to feed damage will progress to complete defoliation. In most cases (especially with bermudagrass) the turf will recover, as only the leaves are affected.

If you suspect fall armyworms are present, use a soap drench in the suspected areas of the lawn. Mix 1-2 fluid ounces of liquid dish soap (lemon scent works best) in a gallon of water until suds appear, then pour the mixture over a 3 square foot area of healthy turf next to an area of damaged turf. Any armyworms will come to the soil surface within 5-10 minutes.