What is an indication of sod webworm activity in a lawn?

The presence of larger than normal brown patches in a lawn is a clear indication of sod webworm activity. Sod webworms are the larvae of certain moths and feed on the grass blades, causing the grass to appear brown and wilted. The patches may vary in size and can be observed in localized areas of the lawn where the larvae have been most active. These disturbances in the turfgrass can lead to significant damage if left uncontrolled, as sod webworms can quickly reduce the health and vigor of the grass. Monitoring for these specific brown patches is essential for timely identification and management of sod webworm infestations.

Other signs of sod webworm presence, while notable in their own right, may not provide as specific a diagnosis as the observation of these brown patches. For instance, droppings on the grass can occur from various pests, while wilting grass blades might indicate other issues such as drought stress or disease. Spongy soil could suggest other underlying problems like soil compaction or excess moisture rather than directly linking to sod webworm activity. Thus, larger brown patches remain the most definitive indicator of this pest's presence.