As frequent users of pesticides, it is imperative that turfgrass professionals understand the terminology surrounding their formulation and use. For example, when we talk about ‘multiple targeting’ we are referring to an attempt to control more than one pest with a single application of pesticide. Timing of application as well as placement and formulation is critical to success. To time a pesticide application correctly is to understand the life cycle of the pest of concern.
The following chart depicts the stages (l = larva, n = nymph, a = adult, ow = overwintering) of common turfgrass insect pests by the month in which they generally occur in our area. Remember that insect pests are not always present, but if they do appear, this chart may help determine in which stage they will be.
|
Insect |
April |
May |
June |
July |
August |
September |
October |
|
Annual White Grubs |
l (ow) |
l (ow) |
a |
a, l |
l |
l |
l |
|
Bluegrass |
a |
a |
l |
l |
a |
a |
a |
|
Chinch |
a |
n, a |
n |
n, a |
n, a |
n, a |
a |
|
Sod |
l |
l |
l |
l |
l |
l |
l |
|
Armyworms |
|
l |
l |
l |
l |
l |
|