The chinch bug, a member of the genus Blissus, is a tiny insect that wreaks mayhem on people’s lawns. Despite their diminutive size – between 1/10 and 1/8 of an inch – chinch bugs can be very damaging. They feed on grass by piercing the plant with their mouthparts and sucking out the juices. This leads to yellowing, browning and eventually death of the grass.
These pests are particularly active in hot, sunny areas, making them a common problem in regions with warm climates like ours. They tend to infest non-irrigated turf, sandy soils and lawns with thatch buildup.
Chinch bugs are adept at hiding. They often scatter when disturbed, making it hard to spot them with the naked eye. The hottest areas of your lawn with the most sun (along streets, driveways or sidewalks) tend to be their preferred targets.
To mitigate the threat to your lawn, be sure to inspect regularly for chinch bugs. Look for signs of chinch bug activity, such as yellowing or browning patches. One method of finding them is to flood an area of the turf, agitate it and look for the tiny insects floating on the surface.
If you’ve noticed yellowing and browning patches on your grass, don’t hesitate. Call Slug-A-Bug at (321) 259-7844 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re your Brevard lawn care specialists.
Remember, too, that it helps to give your lawn a fighting chance against pests by administering proper care. Maintain a healthy lawn by mowing at the correct height. This varies depending on the type of grass (follow this link to a chart). Water deeply but infrequently, and aerate regularly.
By staying vigilant and implementing proper lawn care practices, you can minimize the risk of chinch bug infestations.