Bugs or Drought?

We receive numerous calls every year from people who fear they have bug damage. Only about 20% of them actually do, however. The remaining 80% or so merely have drought damage. We thought, therefore, that it would prove very useful to make a page that detailed a few simple steps that an average homeowner can take to ascertain whether it's bugs or drought.

NOTE: This is not a substitute for prompt, professional response - if you think you have bug damage call us A.S.A.P.!!

LAWN PROBLEMS

THE FIRST STEP is to make a close inspection of the area. There are three insects which typically damage local turf. They are: Billbugs, Sod Web Worm, and White Grubs.

Billbug Larva

Sod Web Worm

White Grub

All of these pests damage turf in their larval stage, and they all leave signs of infestation. A close inspection should reveal infestation. Here are a few things to look for

Grass pulls up easily without tearing sound, or rolls back like a rug (see the above "white grub" picture). This indicates that insects have eaten most of the root and/or stems. In the case of billbugs they will leave a white excrement residue called "frass" in the thatch that looks similar to fine Christmas Tree flocking.

We have also noticed that large groups of Starlings are often found searching through a lawn infested with sod web worm. If you identify any of these signs of insect damage, please call us A.S.A.P.!!

Billbug Damaged Turf

White Grub Damaged Turf

If you are unable to locate any of these signs, then it is likely you don’t have a bug problem - but rather a watering problem.

The best way to determine if you have a watering problem is to measure the amount of water being deposited in the area. This can be done by placing a few mugs or cylindrical cups in the affected area, along with a few in areas that are green (but get a similar amount of sun - these will act as a benchmark). Water the affected area for the normal cycle period and then measure the water in the cups. If there isn’t 1/2" or more, you most likely just have a watering problem.

Check our Healthy Watering page for sure signs the lawn is dry and for additional great watering info.

If the lawn is getting sufficient water - but still has damage, call us: you may be dealing with a fungal problem.

SHRUBS AND TREES

In our hot desert climate it is quite common for us to find drought damage in trees and shrubs. Maples and Quaking Aspens are particularly susceptible.

Typically, drought damage manifests itself as scorch. Scorch is easily identified by the browning of the leading edge of the leaf, which is the last spot on the leaf to get water (see picture below).

Leaf Scorch on Maple Tree

Some plants may even have adequate water available in the soil - but are unable to move it up and out to the leaves as quickly as it is evaporating! Most Maples typically struggle in full sun.

If you are having problems with shrubs, bushes, or trees - and you suspect bugs: go to our Bug Identification Page or call us for help.