All over Paris people are talking about this fall’s invasion of armyworms and how to get rid of them.
Largely found in the south, armyworms are the larvae of a moth. These caterpillars are light green or tan in their early stages and then brown or dark green in later stages, measuring 1 to 2 inches long and almost hairless.
They especially thrive on Bermuda grass, but they can also damage fall-seeded, newly established winter annuals, fescue and orchard grass.
A large infestation, like what we are seeing locally, can completely destroy a lawn in a few days. The first signs of trouble is usually small patches of brown grass and blades of grass with chewed edges. The most severe damage occurs when these annoying lawn pests attack during hot, dry weather. They generally don’t survive the first freeze.
Armyworms are surface feeders and are easily controlled by insecticides when identified early enough.
If you are looking for an alternative to chemicals, try to attract birds by setting out feeders or bird baths near where the worms are feeding. Predatory wasps can also control the armyworms. An organic alternative is Bacillus thuringiensis, a bacteria that is safe to use around children and pets. Spray in the late afternoon or early evening hours when you see the first signs of armyworm damage in your garden.