The Great Epidemic of Fall Armyworms in the Summer of 2021

In the summer of 2021, fall armyworms made their presence known to landscapes around the US, leaving damage and decay in their wake. Unfortunately, not much can be said about why this armyworm epidemic began, but now over a year later, it’s important for us to reflect on the major facts of this previous crisis and what can be done to prevent it from happening again in the future. Custom Taylor’d Lawn & Landscape is here to offer insight on the fall armyworm epidemic and solutions on how to protect your lawn in the upcoming warmer weather. Keep reading below to learn more!

What Are Fall Armyworms?

In the US, there are two different types of armyworms: the true armyworm and the fall armyworm. Fall armyworms are natural to US soil and grow to become fall armyworm moths that thin out grassy fields and create brown spots of decay. In Springfield, IL, fall armyworms were a common threat to homes and businesses in the area and affected many crop fields that will take several seasons to recover. These armyworms (in their larva) form can be identified by their black and brown colored bodies with three yellow/white hairlines down their backs. If you notice these pests in your yard, be sure to call Custom Taylor’d Lawn & Landscape for lawn treatment.

What Kind of Damage Can They Do?

Fall armyworms are harmful pests due to their lack of pickiness when it comes to their diet. These worms will feast on a variety of grass species in both warm and cool landscapes across the country. During the summer of 2021, fall armyworms invaded grass properties that permanently damaged the soil and grass regeneration. Thankfully, land in the southern states was able to recover due to the warm season grass common to humid areas, however, land in the northern states with cool-season grasses is no longer viable. If you notice dark-colored armyworms on your property, contact Custom Taylor’d Lawn & Landscape in Springfield, IL at 217.306.4215 for treatment and prevention services.

Why Was An Armyworm Outbreak So Intense in 2021?

The fall armyworm outbreak could have begun for many reasons: the warming climate, wet weather, or even changes in the predators, parasites, and pathogens in your local area. Scientists believe that the outbreak was most likely due to a varying number of reasons, making it hard to pinpoint exactly where, why, and how any of it started to begin with. We do know that armyworms cannot survive in freezing temperatures, so the warming climate may have more to do with it than we think. If you notice any fall armyworms in your yard in Springfield, IL, be sure to call your local lawn care experts at Custom Taylor’d Lawn & Landscape for professional care.

How Can You Prevent Armyworms From Harming Your Lawn?

Now that you’re aware of the danger these insects pose to your lawn, how can you prevent them from ever making a home in your grass? While there isn’t a specific process that is available to prevent them entirely, it does help to be vigilant about signs of decay and infestation on your property. Once you notice a brown patch of grass on your property, you may be too late to prevent further decay, however, catching fall armyworms sooner than later will give your Springfield, IL landscape a better chance of survival. Custom Taylor’d Lawn & Landscape has years of experience restoring the health of lawns affected by fall armyworms, so give us a call when you notice one on your property.