Turf Pests

The management of a lawn will occasionally require the control of lawn pests. In this section we try to provide you with some knowledge of the three most common lawn pests.

Leather Jacket

Larvae of the crane fly (or daddy-long-legs). They are grey-brown legless grubs. The larvae chew and sever the stems of grass plants. Larvae can continue to feed through mild winters and damage is seen as patches of dead or dying grass. If sections of affected turf are lifted this very often reveals the grubs. Increased bird activity on your lawn may indicate the presence of Leather Jackets.

Chafer Grub

The two main species of chafer grub associated with turf problems are the cockchafer and the garden chafer. Larvae are creamy white, with a brown head, three pairs of legs and a swollen tail end. Damage is seen as patches of dead or dying grass. Again increased bird activity on your lawn may indicate the presence of Chafer Grubs.

Frit Fly

Frit fly will tunnel into the stem of young grass plants or new tillers and feed. The larvae are creamy white turning brown when they pupate. Three generations may occur in one year. Damage will be seen as  thinning of the grass.

Animals

Dogs

Animals can have detrimental effects on turf. Dogs will trample the area if confined to a small space, and they must void their waste at some time. Apart from the smell and health implications it doesn't look very nice either. If you have dogs we would be grateful if you could ensure your lawn is clear of any dog mess before we call. Bitches also cause patches of dead grass where they urinate, however if at all possible you can immediately dilute the area with a bucket of water this will greatly reduce the harmful effect dog urine has on grass.

Rabbits

Other pets such as rabbits and their wild cousins will scrape little holes.

 

 

 

 

 

Moles

Moles are most unwelcome and can destroy a lawn, they are attracted by and feed on mostly earthworms but will also eat insects, larvae etc.  Moles can be controlled by trapping or fumigating. If you have a problem with moles we recommend you consult with a licensed pest control expert.