![\"Eco](\"http://www.thelovelyplants.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/ec-friendly-pest-control.jpg\")
Eco-friendly Pest Control / Image via flickr
There is no doubt that insects are an important part of the world’s eco system, so we should probably not simply try to kill them all off. This does not mean that you should find yourself pinned to the chair because a family of spiders is standing in the middle of the floor. It also […]
\n","content":"\t\t\t\tThere is no doubt that insects are an important part of the world’s eco system, so we should probably not simply try to kill them all off. This does not mean that you should find yourself pinned to the chair because a family of spiders is standing in the middle of the floor. It also does not mean that you should have to throw out a ton of food items because ants have found their way into your kitchen cupboards.
\nYou want to make sure that insects stay outside of your home. Doing this successfully, involves using pest control. But what about the problem of using chemicals? We have already mentioned how killing all insects is bad for the ecosystem; you may be concerned about pest control chemicals, for the same reason. Many pest control experts actually offer services that are more environmentally friendly than was previously the case; you can find out more about eco-friendly pest control service. If you would rather try your own eco-friendly methods first, here are a few ideas.
\nEco-friendly Pest Control / Image via flickr
Diatomaceous earth is simply a collection of fossilized remains of a species of algae. The remains consist of hard and sharp pieces which are microscopic in size. These pieces damage the exoskeletons of the insects that may be tempted to invade your property, killing them. You only need a thin layer of diatomaceous earth to do the job and you can sprinkle it wherever you choose, as it’s perfectly safe.
\nMint is harmless to humans, but ants and flies do not like it. All you should do is scatter a few leaves around where there is a potential problem of infestation, and the culprits should be deterred. As an added bonus, mint gives your home a fresh and clean scent.
\nThis may sound like a really simple solution; but it can work. You just need to fill a spray bottle with a soap flakes and water solution, then point at the bugs you want to get rid of, and spray. The soap in the mixture damages the exoskeleton of the bug. The water then gets inside and the bug drowns. It’s as simple as that.
\nTermites that invade from underground can be deterred by using a barrier of sand. They cannot tunnel through the sand in the same way that they can tunnel through earth. You can use sand around the foundations of your property, in crawl spaces and in any other area that may be susceptible to termite activity.
\nThis may sound a little gross, but you can actually kill termites using a different type of creature; microscopic worms called nematodes. They are just pumped into areas where there is a problem with termites and they then kill any termites which are present.
\nYou can use any or all of these solutions to try and rid your home of a pest problem. If you have any issues doing so, do not be worried about calling in the experts. You can discuss any concerns about chemicals with them, before any treatment is started.\t\t
\n","title":"Eco-Friendly Pest Control for Your Home","featured_media":null,"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Eco-Friendly Pest Control for Your Home | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"aaa012bd-ce4d-532f-96f9-159eae33b1b8","slug":"worst-atlanta-georgia-bugs","path":"/lawn-care/ga/atlanta/worst-atlanta-georgia-bugs/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"After discovering her passion for writing through her beauty blog, Melanie left her engineering job in California, became a freelance writer, and never once looked back. She loves nature and enjoys going on road trips with her husband and their two sons.","name":"Melanie Joseph","id":"f86bf815-f27c-5928-b67e-d3481c2d1e0a","path":"/author/melanie-joseph/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/da91467d5e58d9fc8f1f730b09830569?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f552cb4e-e448-57f4-a5a4-d001c98833f6","name":"Atlanta","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ga/atlanta/"},{"id":"e4b1764d-a5cd-56e1-942a-7fc609f1b8e9","name":"Georgia","count":11,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ga/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"84a346a7-9ce4-5d70-a95f-abcea3779ced","name":"Pests and Diseases","count":10,"path":"/category/pests-and-diseases/"}],"date":"June 25th, 2019","excerpt":"Atlanta, known for its mild winters and humid summers, has a diverse ecosystem. But this also means that the city is home to a variety of bugs that can be a nuisance to homeowners. In fact, it’s the second “buggiest” city in the country, according to a recent study. From armyworms to white grubs, these […]
\n","content":"\nAtlanta, known for its mild winters and humid summers, has a diverse ecosystem. But this also means that the city is home to a variety of bugs that can be a nuisance to homeowners. In fact, it’s the second “buggiest” city in the country, according to a recent study. From armyworms to white grubs, these lawn pests can invade yards and cause discomfort and health hazards.
\n\n\n\nKnow how to deal with these pesky insects to keep your home and family safe. Take a closer look at the top 9 worst bugs for Atlanta lawns and learn tips on how to get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we will cover:
\n\n\n\nMaintaining a lush, healthy lawn is a point of pride for many Atlanta homeowners. But the presence of bugs can quickly ruin your lawn’s appearance and damage its overall health. From destructive pests that eat away at your grass to disease-carrying insects that threaten both your lawn and your family’s well-being, the negative effects of bugs on your lawn cannot be overlooked.
\n\n\n\nHere are some of the reasons why bugs are bad for your Atlanta lawn:
\n\n\n\nA vibrant, pest-free lawn is essential to the beauty and enjoyment of your Atlanta property. However, with the warm and humid climate of the region comes a variety of bugs that can wreak havoc on your lawn’s health and appearance. Fortunately, there are two different ways of controlling bugs on your Atlanta lawn: organic methods and chemical treatments.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re looking for a natural, chemical-free way to control bugs on your green lawn, several organic treatment options can effectively keep lawn pests at bay. Some of the most popular options that help control bugs without posing a risk to human and environmental health include:
\n\n\n\nWhile organic treatments are a great option for homeowners who prefer natural pest control methods, sometimes a more aggressive approach is necessary. Chemical treatments can effectively control pests, but you must use them carefully to avoid harming the environment or beneficial insects. Here are some common chemical treatments used for pest control:
\n\n\n\n![\"fall](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/28051594681_10f79b96b7_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: K-State Research and Extension / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
One of the worst bugs in the greater Atlanta area, armyworms cause significant damage to green lawns and fields. With their voracious appetites and ability to reproduce rapidly, armyworms can quickly decimate large areas of your lawn.
\n\n\n\nSigns they are in your lawn include areas of dead grass that appear brown or yellow and have been chewed down to the nub. These patches may appear quickly and grow larger over time. You also may see clusters of small, greenish-brown caterpillars congregating in patches of grass. Birds also start flocking to your property, as they are attracted to the armyworms as a food source.
\n\n\n\nTo get rid of armyworms from your lawn, you can use chemical insecticides specifically designed to target these pests. Some effective options include pesticides containing pyrethroids or carbaryl. Remember to follow the instructions on the label carefully, as these chemicals can be harmful to humans, pets, beneficial insects, and other wildlife.
\n\n\n\nPreventing armyworms involves keeping lawns well-maintained and avoiding overfertilization.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Caterpillar
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Grasses, including bermudagrass, perennial ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass
\n\n\n\nDanger: Moderate – while they don’t bite or transmit diseases, armyworms can quickly decimate large areas of vegetation and cause significant economic and environmental damage
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Repellent and non-repellent pesticides, professional pest control services, or biological controls like nematodes or parasitic wasps
\n\n\n\n![\"close-up](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/11212516326_eefa4aef17_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fyn Kynd / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhat are Billbugs?
\n\n\n\nDifficult to get rid of, billbugs can cause extensive damage to lawns, golf courses, sod fields, pastures, and other grassy areas in Atlanta. These small, beetle-like insects that can devastate grassroots and leave unsightly brown patches on once-lush lawns have the following characteristics:
\n\n\n\nIf you see signs of wilting or discoloration in your lawn, there’s a good chance billbugs are the culprit. You also may notice billbug larvae in the soil or on the surface of your lawn. Additionally, adult billbugs may be visible crawling on the grass blades.
\n\n\n\nGet rid of billbugs from your lawn by applying a pesticide specifically designed for these pests. You should keep your lawn healthy and mow it to the appropriate height.
\n\n\n\nMaintain healthy soil conditions, including proper drainage and aeration. Additionally, you can use insect-resistant grass varieties and avoid overfertilizing your lawn, as this can attract billbugs.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Beetle
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Prefer to feed on warm-season grasses like bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, and St. Augustinegrass
\n\n\n\nDanger: Moderate – billbugs do not transmit diseases to humans or pets, but their larvae can cause damage to lawns and grassy areas
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Repellent and non-repellent pesticides can be used to control billbugs, but it’s important to follow the label instructions carefully and avoid overuse. In severe cases, professional pest control services may be necessary to eliminate the infestation.
\n\n\n\n![\"Hairy](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hairy_Chinch_Bug_-_Blissus_leucopteru_50594763067.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Christina Butler / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nWhat are Chinch Bugs?
\n\n\n\nOne of the most dreaded pests, these tiny bugs are responsible for causing massive damage to lawns by sucking the juices out of grass blades. Particularly worrisome in Atlanta due to the city’s hot and humid climate, chinch bugs have the following characteristics:
\n\n\n\nIf you notice certain areas of your lawn are turning yellow, it’s possible chinch bugs are to blame. These yellow or brown patches do not recover with watering.
\n\n\n\nYou also may notice chinch bug nymphs and adults on the grass blades, soil surface, or in thatch. Try to inspect your lawn by parting the grass blades and looking for these tiny insects. Another way to check for chinch bugs is to use the coffee can method.
\n\n\n\nTo get rid of chinch bugs from your lawn, you can try applying a pesticide specifically designed for these pests. You should keep your lawn healthy by watering it regularly and mowing it to the appropriate height.
\n\n\n\nTake steps to create an environment that is less hospitable to these pests. Ensure your soil has adequate drainage and is properly aerated. You can opt for grass varieties that are not prone to chinch bug infestations. Also, be mindful of how much fertilizer you use on your lawn, as overfertilization can create an ideal habitat for chinch bugs to thrive.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Ground bug
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Prefer to feed on St. Augustinegrass but also can damage bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low – these bugs don’t pose a health risk to humans and animals but may mistake human hair follicles for grass blades and bite them
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Use insecticidal soap or pyrethrin-based insecticides, remove thatch buildup in lawns, increase soil moisture levels, and maintain proper lawn care practices to prevent infestations
\n\n\n\n![\"fire](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3137874781_9a4ae277bf_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Marufish / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhat are Fire Ants?
\n\n\n\nKnown to prefer warm, sunny areas like lawns, gardens, and parks, fire ants have a relatively short growth cycle, with new colonies being established through a process known as swarming. Once established, colonies can grow rapidly and can contain thousands of ants. These ants have the following characteristics:
\n\n\n\nOne of the most obvious is the appearance of small, mounded nests in your yard. These nests can range in size from a few inches to several feet in diameter, and they are often found in sunny areas with loose soil. If you see a nest, be sure to approach it with caution, as disturbing it can cause the ants to become agitated and attack.
\n\n\n\nYou also may notice swarms of ants crawling around your yard, particularly after rain, in the early morning or late afternoon hours.
\n\n\n\nDon’t wait until you or a family member gets stung by fire ants. One effective method is to use a chemical insecticide specifically designed for fire ants. These products are typically applied directly to the ant mound and can provide long-lasting control.
\n\n\n\nAlternatively, you can use a natural remedy, such as pouring boiling water or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda onto the ant mound.
\n\n\n\nMaintain a healthy lawn and remove potential nesting sites (piles of debris, tree stumps, and fallen logs) to prevent fire ants from invading your yard.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Ant
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Prefer warm-season grasses like bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, and Zoysiagrass
\n\n\n\nDanger: Moderate to high – their bites can cause pain, swelling, and in some cases, anaphylactic shock
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Use specialized fire ant bait or contact insecticide.
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Flea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Erturac / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nWhat are Fleas?
\n\n\n\nFleas are notorious for their ability to cause intense itching and discomfort in both humans and animals. In addition to their irritating bites, they are also known to transmit a variety of diseases, making them a serious health risk. Other things you need to know about fleas include:
\n\n\n\nEven though fleas are small and difficult to see, there are some signs that can indicate their presence. One of the most common signs is seeing your pets scratching and biting at their skin. You also may notice small, red bites on your pet’s skin (or even your own). Additionally, flea dirt (the waste products of fleas) can often be seen on the fur of pets or in infested areas.
\n\n\n\nIf the infestation is severe, professional pest control services may be necessary to eliminate the problem.
\n\n\n\nPreventing flea infestations can be challenging, but grooming and bathing your pets regularly can help reduce their risk of flea infestations. Additionally, treating your pets with a preventative flea medication can provide long-lasting protection. Vacuuming your home regularly and washing your pets’ bedding in hot water also can help.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Parasite
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Shady, humid, and moist areas of the lawn, but prefer to feed on the blood of warm-blooded animals such as cats, dogs, and rodents
\n\n\n\nDanger: Moderate to high – their bites can cause intense itching and discomfort, and they are known to transmit diseases like typhus and plague
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Treat infested pets with a flea preventative medication, regularly groom and bathe pets, vacuum and wash pet bedding and other potentially infested areas, and seek professional pest control services if the infestation is severe
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/41222960292_b7687643c0_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Katja Schultz / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhat are Japanese Beetles?
\n\n\n\nA metallic green beetle with copper-colored wings, the Japanese beetle is one of Atlanta’s most destructive insect pests, causing significant damage to lawns, trees, shrubs, and other native plants.
\n\n\n\nIt’s easy to identify Japanese beetles in your lawn, as they tend to gather in large groups. You also may notice small, circular holes in the leaves, which are a sign of their feeding.
\n\n\n\nYou can use physical barriers, like netting, to impede their access to your vulnerable lawn. In addition, applying insecticidal soap or neem oil on known feeding sites can effectively deter these pests.
\n\n\n\nFurthermore, manually removing adult beetles is a labor-intensive but effective method of control. For the grub stage of the beetle’s life cycle, you can apply a soil insecticide.
\n\n\n\nRemove any rotting or decaying organic matter from your lawn to reduce the beetle population and eliminate potential breeding sites for the grubs.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Beetle
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, Zoysiagrass, and bermudagrass are susceptible to Japanese beetle infestations.
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low – although they can cause skin irritation in some people
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Use physical barriers like netting to prevent these beetles from reaching lawns, and insecticidal soap or neem oil on plants that they are known to feed on. Manually remove adult beetles and apply a soil insecticide to control the grub stage of the beetle’s life cycle.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/mole-cricket-gfc1197571_1280-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: pixabey
\n\n\n\nWhat are Mole Crickets?
\n\n\n\nUsually found underground, in soil and grassy areas, these small, cylindrical insects have destructive behaviors that can lead to significant economic losses for property owners in Atlanta.
\n\n\n\nOne of the signs mole crickets are present in a lawn is the appearance of raised tunnels and mounds of soil. These tunnels can be several inches wide and extend several feet underground, causing considerable damage to the root systems of grasses and plants. Plus, patchy, brown spots on the lawn can be a result of the insects feeding on the grassroots.
\n\n\n\nYou can use a pesticide specifically designed to target mole crickets. Look for a product that contains imidacloprid or bifenthrin – two active ingredients shown to be effective against mole crickets.
\n\n\n\nAnother approach is to use biological control methods. Certain nematodes, like Steinernema scapterisci, are natural predators of mole crickets and can help reduce their population. You can purchase these nematodes online or at garden centers.
\n\n\n\nWatering your lawn less frequently and for longer periods of time can help create a less hospitable environment for mole crickets. Also, consider using physical barriers, like mesh screens, to prevent mole crickets from burrowing into your lawn.
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, reducing outdoor lighting at night can help prevent mole crickets from being attracted to your yard.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Cricket
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Mole crickets feed on various grass types, including bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, and centipedegrass.
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low – but their burrowing can cause damage to lawns and agricultural crops
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Biological control (introducing natural predators) and chemical control (using insecticides)
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/9465727988_be7983cfea_c.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Judy Gallagher / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhat are Spittlebugs?
\n\n\n\nAlthough not the most harmful pest, spittlebugs can be a nuisance for Atlanta homeowners with manicured lawns. These tiny insects have the following characteristics:
\n\n\n\nIt’s relatively easy to spot spittlebugs in your lawn, as their frothy nests and foamy spittle are visible on the grass blades. Another sign of spittlebug damage is the yellowing or wilting of leaves.
\n\n\n\nPrompt treatment with insecticides or other control measures can help protect your lawn and prevent further damage. One effective method of control is the use of insecticidal soap or oil spray. These products work by suffocating the spittlebugs and disrupting their life cycle.
\n\n\n\nHomeowners can prevent spittlebug infestations by maintaining healthy lawns, removing excess thatch, and reducing excess moisture in the soil.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Sucking insect
\n\n\n\nHabitat: While they feed on a wide range of plants, spittlebugs are particularly attracted to legumes and grasses like bermudagrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and fescue.
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low – but can cause mild skin irritation in some people
\n\n\n\nRemoval: In most cases, spittlebugs do not require treatment as they do not cause significant damage to plants or grass. However, if a large infestation is present, an insecticidal soap or oil spray can be used to control the population.
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cyclocephala_sp._Dinastinae_Atlantic_forest_northeastern_Bahia_Brazil_8625349528-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Alex Popovkin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWhat are White Grubs?
\n\n\n\nA common pest in lawns and gardens throughout Atlanta, white grubs are small, C-shaped larvae that can quickly devastate grass and other plants, feeding on the roots and causing them to wither and die.
\n\n\n\nIf you notice sections of your lawn turning brown and wilting, you may have a white grub infestation. You also may notice birds and other animals digging up your lawn in search of the grubs, as they are a common food source for many animals.
\n\n\n\nGardeners and lawn enthusiasts may consider adopting a biological approach to control grubs in their soil. This approach involves introducing natural predators, like nematodes or parasitic wasps, that attack white grubs.
\n\n\n\nChemical treatments can be highly effective but also can harm beneficial insects and pollinators, which are essential for the proper functioning of ecosystems. Therefore, you must follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using chemical treatments and only apply them as a last resort when other control methods have failed.
\n\n\n\nIf left unchecked, white grubs can kill entire sections of turf. Maintaining a healthy lawn is an effective way to prevent white grub infestations. Use cultural control methods, like proper water, aeration, and regular lawn care to keep your lawn in top condition.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Larva
\n\n\n\nHabitat: White grubs feed on the roots of many types of grass, including bermudagrass, bluegrass, fescue, and ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low – but can cause damage to turfgrass and other plants by feeding on their roots, leading to yellowing or browning of the grass and eventual death. They also attract predators like raccoons and skunks, which can cause further damage to lawns.
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Biological control, such as introducing nematodes or parasitic wasps that attack the grubs. Chemical treatments are effective but should be used with caution as they can harm beneficial insects and pollinators.
\n\n\n\nLawn bug infestations can have several long-term effects on your lawn, including: Weakened grass: Lawn bugs can damage the roots of your grass, making it weaker and more susceptible to other diseases, weeds, and environmental stressors. Brown spots: As lawn bugs feed on the grass, they can create brown spots and dead patches throughout your lawn. These spots can be unsightly and can take a long time to repair. Reduced growth: Infested lawns often grow more slowly than healthy lawns, leading to thinning grass. Increased vulnerability: A weakened lawn that bugs have damaged is more vulnerable to diseases, environmental stressors, and other pests. Costly repairs: If the infestation is not addressed promptly, it can result in costly repairs and replacement of damaged areas of your lawn. Address lawn bug infestations as soon as possible to prevent these long-term effects and keep your lawn healthy and beautiful.
Yes, there are certain times of the year when lawn bugs are more active in Atlanta. In general, they are more active during the warmer months when temperatures are consistently above 70°F. The peak activity of lawn bugs is typically from late spring through early fall, which is roughly from March to October. Some common lawn bugs in Atlanta, such as chinch bugs and white grubs, have two cycles of activity per year, with the first cycle occurring in the spring and the second in the late summer or early fall. This means that if you are dealing with an infestation of these bugs, it may require multiple treatments to eradicate them completely. Note: Even during the colder months, some lawn bugs can remain active and cause damage to your lawn. So stay vigilant and monitor your lawn for any signs of infestation throughout the year.
Follow these lawn maintenance practices to help prevent the growth and spread of lawn bugs: Proper watering: Overwatering your lawn can create ideal conditions for certain types of lawn bugs, like chinch bugs. Water your lawn deeply but infrequently, and allow the topsoil to dry out between watering. Regular mowing: Many lawn bugs prefer long grasses, so keep your lawn at the appropriate height for your grass type by regularly mowing it. Aerate your lawn: It can help reduce soil compaction, which can create an environment that is less favorable to lawn bugs. Remove thatch: Thatch buildup can create a breeding ground for lawn bugs. Regularly removing thatch can help prevent the growth and spread of lawn bugs. Use fertilizers responsibly: Over-fertilizing your lawn can create ideal conditions for lawn bugs. Always use fertilizers responsibly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Maintaining a beautiful and healthy lawn in Atlanta can be challenging, especially with the presence of pesky bugs. But with the right knowledge and techniques, you can keep these lawn pests at bay and enjoy a thriving lawn year-round.
\n\n\n\nBy taking proactive measures, such as using chemical treatments, practicing proper lawn care, and consulting with experts when necessary, Atlanta homeowners can overcome the challenges of bug infestations and enjoy the benefits of a beautiful lawn.
Be vigilant and stay informed to keep your lawn healthy and pest-free. Contact an Atlanta pest control pro today.
Main Photo Credit: Tortoise beetle attacks bug / gbohne / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"9 Worst Bugs for Atlanta Lawns (and How to Get Rid of Them)","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4851485148514851,"src":"/static/d1264c814a60e6430e7679cd92adff6d/1789c/Assassin_bug_exhausts_a_Tortoise_beetle_5070517021-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d1264c814a60e6430e7679cd92adff6d/107df/Assassin_bug_exhausts_a_Tortoise_beetle_5070517021-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/d1264c814a60e6430e7679cd92adff6d/293e9/Assassin_bug_exhausts_a_Tortoise_beetle_5070517021-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/d1264c814a60e6430e7679cd92adff6d/f2cbb/Assassin_bug_exhausts_a_Tortoise_beetle_5070517021-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/d1264c814a60e6430e7679cd92adff6d/1789c/Assassin_bug_exhausts_a_Tortoise_beetle_5070517021-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/d1264c814a60e6430e7679cd92adff6d/c26c2/Assassin_bug_exhausts_a_Tortoise_beetle_5070517021-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/d1264c814a60e6430e7679cd92adff6d/1dd6e/Assassin_bug_exhausts_a_Tortoise_beetle_5070517021-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d1264c814a60e6430e7679cd92adff6d/67b76/Assassin_bug_exhausts_a_Tortoise_beetle_5070517021-1.webp 320w,\n/static/d1264c814a60e6430e7679cd92adff6d/8df11/Assassin_bug_exhausts_a_Tortoise_beetle_5070517021-1.webp 500w,\n/static/d1264c814a60e6430e7679cd92adff6d/98a65/Assassin_bug_exhausts_a_Tortoise_beetle_5070517021-1.webp 800w,\n/static/d1264c814a60e6430e7679cd92adff6d/1dd6e/Assassin_bug_exhausts_a_Tortoise_beetle_5070517021-1.webp 960w,\n/static/d1264c814a60e6430e7679cd92adff6d/3cc96/Assassin_bug_exhausts_a_Tortoise_beetle_5070517021-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Worst Bugs for Atlanta Lawns (and How to Get Rid of Them) | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the 9 most troublesome bugs in Atlanta and how to banish them for good. Keep your lawn healthy and pest-free with our expert tips."}}},{"node":{"id":"c6617f5a-a2f4-5d62-bc9b-73506a727253","slug":"can-bed-bugs-live-outside-in-your-lawn","path":"/pests-and-diseases/can-bed-bugs-live-outside-in-your-lawn/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.","name":"Jill Ramone","id":"4c71091e-0a16-561f-8bdf-528214955c18","path":"/author/jillramone/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0caf6c31bc9563a294dd509633a793c6?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"84a346a7-9ce4-5d70-a95f-abcea3779ced","name":"Pests and Diseases","count":10,"path":"/category/pests-and-diseases/"}],"date":"February 7th, 2020","excerpt":"Bed bugs — these nasty little critters are one of the well-known intruders to homeowners. Often, they can be spotted on your bed, under your mattress, on your couch. But can bed bugs live outside, in your lawn? This article will answer this and other common pest control questions. Why Do Bed Bugs Usually Live […]
\n","content":"\nBed bugs — these nasty little critters are one of the well-known intruders to homeowners. Often, they can be spotted on your bed, under your mattress, on your couch. But can bed bugs live outside, in your lawn?
\n\n\n\nThis article will answer this and other common pest control questions.
\n\n\n\nBed bugs are blood-sucking pests and the reason is obvious. These bugs feed solely on human blood. We spend most of your time inside your property rather than outside. This means they will stick to you and will reproduce as close as they can.
\n\n\n\nBed bugs can barely travel from one place to another due to the fact that they are unable to jump or fly.
\n\n\n\nIt’s a myth that bed bugs live only on your bed. It’s certainly their favorite spot, since you spend so many hours on your bed. You also stay on your couch for at least two hours per day.
\n\n\n\nBed bugs know this, too.
\n\n\n\nBasically, they can live anywhere only if the food source is around. It means they will follow you. How do they know where you are? Well, they are attracted and able to sense the carbon dioxide you release.
\n\n\n\nSo, you also spend decent time outside, playing with your children or pets, or having a nice dinner with your friends, especially during spring and summertime. Naturally, the next question is can bed bugs live and survive on your lawn?
\n\n\n\nYes, no, and it depends.
Let’s check why there’s no unambiguous answer.
Bed bugs can’t jump or fly, and can move only a short distance. However, they are notorious hitchhikers. That’s the chief way they spread. They’ll hitch a ride in anything that comes near its human host — your jacket, purse, luggage or backpack.
\n\n\n\nThey can be found outside in your backyard if someone has, say, tossed out a mattress or other infested material.
\n\n\n\nIf they somehow end up in the grass, bed bugs will immediately look for another place to move to be near you.
\n\n\n\nSince bed bugs can live in wooden, upholstered or even rattan furniture. If you spend a lot of time outdoors on your patio, they could have a very comfortable home there.
\n\n\n\nBed bugs that end up outside will take the first opportunity they can to climb on you follow you inside. But, if they don’t catch the moment, they will stay outside. The tiny bugs are hardy. As cold-blooded creatures, they can easily regulate their inner temperature according to the temperature outside.
\n\n\n\nLow temperatures are not a big threat to the vermin. Scientists found they don’t all die off until the thermometer reads minus-22 degrees Fahrenheit.
\n\n\n\nThe same goes for high-temperatures. Bed bugs die above 120 degrees F which happens rarely to never in most places. So, they can enjoy the hot weather and thrive as long as there is a host nearby.
\n\n\n\nAs bed bugs are able to control temperature this allows them to save energy and survive without food for up to five months.
\n\n\n\nThey do have predators, such as cockroaches, spiders, ants or even lizards. This doesn’t mean you can count on them against the bed bugs as the predators are not able to eliminate the whole colony or even the eggs.
\n\n\n\nBed bugs could travel up to 20 feet. So, can bed bugs travel across a yard? Yes, they sure can.
\n\n\n\nDealing with bed bugs might take a long time. The Fantastic bed bug exterminators share their knowledge with you which are the few things you can do to reduce their population from the outside.
\n\n\n\nHowever, some of the ways won’t guarantee that you will eradicate the bed bugs from the first try:
\n\n\n\nBed bugs generally reproduce and live inside your property and on rare occasions can be found on your lawn. When they fall on the grass they won’t stay any longer and immediately will search for a more comfortable spot to hide and wait for the perfect time to feed on your delicious blood. The infestation can spread very quickly, so don’t delay any treatment.
Texas is one of the most bug-diverse locations in the U.S. and home to almost 30,000 species of insects. Thanks to “Big D’s’ subtropical climate, 40 inches of annual rain, and average daily temperatures around 78 degrees Fahrenheit, the Metroplex is a bug’s paradise. We compiled a list of the 11 worst bugs in Dallas, […]
\n","content":"\nTexas is one of the most bug-diverse locations in the U.S. and home to almost 30,000 species of insects. Thanks to “Big D’s’ subtropical climate, 40 inches of annual rain, and average daily temperatures around 78 degrees Fahrenheit, the Metroplex is a bug’s paradise. We compiled a list of the 11 worst bugs in Dallas, including tips on how to get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\nInsects are vital to the well-being of our ecosystems. Unfortunately, that does not mean we want them in our homes or infesting our garden plants. While many insects are beneficial or neutral, some species are destructive and should be controlled.
\n\n\n\nHere are some reasons why pest control is important:
\n\n\n\nThere are two ways to control pests in your lawn and around your home: chemical treatments and organic methods. Organic methods are the safest treatment options, but these methods aren’t always the best and many are ineffective. Be sure to identify the type of pest you are dealing with before selecting your removal method.
\n\n\n\nIt is always advisable to hire a professional pest control company to perform quarterly treatments inside and outside of your home. These methods are the safest and most effective for your family and pets.
\n\n\n\nExperts agree home pest control is necessary, and many Dallas-Fort Worth critters can be prevented. Organic pest control has come a long way and is safer than chemical treatment options for your pets and children. However, it is also typically less effective.
\n\n\n\nCheck out some available organic pest control options:
\n\n\n\nChemical pest control treatments are more effective than organic techniques. They control rodents and insects, stopping the spread of dangerous bacteria and diseases.
\n\n\n\nSome popular chemical treatments include:
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crematogaster_ashmeadi_casent0103762_profile_1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: April Nobile / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, acrobat ants stray far from the circus into your Dallas yard. These reddish-brown and black ants grow to ⅛ inch and have distinctive, heart-shaped abdomens. They emit an odor when threatened and raise their abdomen over their head in a feat of acrobatics. Omnivorous colonies of a few thousand members eat honeydew from aphids, dead or living insects, and mealybugs.
\n\n\n\nAcrobat ants rarely nest in the open or enter homes. They love moisture and live under rocks, logs, trees, and wood piles. The most obvious sign of an infestation is an ant trail. These foragers travel up to 100 feet from their nest in search of resources.
\n\n\n\nThe easiest way to prevent these moisture-loving pests is to eliminate sources of standing water, keep your yard clear of fallen branches and logs, and store firewood at least 5 inches from the ground.
\n\n\n\nIf you are unlucky and find these predatory ants around your home, opt for a foam insecticide sprayed directly on the nest indoors or a non-repellent pesticide outdoors.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Crematogaster
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist areas under rocks, logs, trees, or wood piles
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low; emit an odor when threatened, occasionally bites when disturbed
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Repellent and non-repellent pesticides
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/adult-bed-bug-cimex-lectularius-ee47a5-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Picryl
\n\n\n\nFew bugs make your skin crawl by mere mention like bed bugs. These indoor vampiric pests are small and brownish-red with flat, oval-shaped bodies and six legs. They grow to ¼ inch and feed on blood, preferably human blood.
\n\n\n\nThese pests are hitchhikers and have no environmental preferences aside from the presence of humans. Bed bugs enter your home through clothes, belongings, and luggage. They are nocturnal and most active from April to November, hiding in mattresses, box springs, baseboards, and outlets.
\n\n\n\nPrevent bed bugs by keeping your luggage and personal belongings off the ground while traveling. Do not purchase used furniture or mattresses and wash used clothing immediately.
\n\n\n\nIf you suspect bed bugs have infested your home, contact a local exterminator. Professional removal is the best way to eradicate a bed bug infestation, and many experts rely on organic heat treatments.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Cimicidae
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Anywhere where humans live
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low; but can cause red rashes that can lead to secondary infections in some people
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Professional pest control services, including heat treatments
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Camponotus_sideview_2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Richard Bartz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\nThere are 14 species of carpenter ants in Texas, and the largest species is the black carpenter ant. Thankfully, these pests prefer wooded outdoor areas, including old stumps, decaying logs, and firewood. Carpenter ants are brown-red with black abdomens and reach up to 1⁄2 inch long.
\n\n\n\nThese ants can cause structural damage to homes, though it is rare. You may find them between wood shingles, siding, or fascia boards. Identify carpenter ant tunnels and nests by looking for sawdust near openings. Like acrobat ants, these omnivores forage for decaying fruits, honeydew from aphids, and live or dead insects.
\n\n\n\nPrevent carpenter ants by eliminating moisture problems and sealing cracks or openings near your foundation. Remove dead branches and trim trees away from structures.
\n\n\n\nCarpenter ants have chewing mouthparts and stingers. They can bite but do not sting. Remove them from your home by using a propellant foam insecticide. Similarly, use a pyrethroid insecticide outdoors to eliminate the nest and trails.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Camponotus
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Dead or decaying wood, stumps, logs, or weakened building materials
\n\n\n\nDanger: Moderate; bites when disturbed, causes structural damage to wood
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Repellent and non-repellent pesticides
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hairy_Chinch_Bug_-_Blissus_leucopteru_50594763067-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Christina Butler / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nChinch bugs are 3/16 inch long with black bodies and white wings. They feed on the sap of grasses, commonly occurring in bunch grasses and Dallas turfgrasses, including bermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass.
\n\n\n\nWatch for round, localized yellow or brown spots in your yard, typically from July to August.
\n\n\n\nUnfortunately, chinch bugs are drawn to heat, sun, and warm-season grasses. Your best defense against these nuisance pests is proper lawn maintenance, including watering, mowing, and fertilizing.
\n\n\n\nDIY collect chinch bugs using a coffee can with both ends removed to create a hollow pipe. Insert the can into the soil inside the affected area. Fill the can with water and leave it for a few days. Chinch bugs will float to the top of the can for removal. Additionally, use a granular insecticide for lawn pests.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Blissus leucopterus
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Bunch grasses and turfgrasses, including bermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass
\n\n\n\nDanger: Low; medically harmless but capable of injuring plants and turfgrass
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Granular lawn pesticide or coffee can method
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Periplaneta_americana_-_D8-10-2861Crop.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eran Finkle / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nYou can find cockroaches all over the world, and Dallas is no exception. Home to the American cockroach, German cockroach, and oriental cockroach, these pests have a thick shell of armor covering their oval bodies, six legs, and two long antennae. Both the American and German cockroach species have fully developed wings for flying.
\n\n\n\nCockroaches love moisture, including drains, flower beds, and mulch. They seek shelter indoors during bad weather, hiding in laundry rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. These nuisance pests spread disease, contaminate food, emit odors, worsen allergies, and even trigger asthma attacks.
\n\n\n\nPrevent cockroaches around your home and yard by creating a barrier between your home and mulched beds, locking your outdoor trash can lids, sealing foundation gaps, and eliminating standing water. Keep living areas clean and vacuumed and use dehumidifiers to reduce humidity levels.
\n\n\n\nGlue traps, bait stations, and repellent pesticides are the best indoor removal methods while you can use non-repellent pesticides outdoors around your lawn.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Periplaneta
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist areas; drains, flower beds, mulch, laundry rooms, basements, kitchens, and bathrooms
\n\n\n\nDanger: High; carry diseases, contaminate food, emit odors, and trigger allergies and asthma attacks
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Glue traps, bait stations, and repellent and non-repellent pesticides
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/14878801786_985ed3d160_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Animal Diversity Web / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nFire ants are as menacing as they sound. These reddish-brown insects are only ⅜ inch long with powerful jaws that deliver painful bites and stringers full of venom. Fire ants are aggressive and a year-round problem in the DFW area. Like carpenter and acrobat ants, they are omnivorous, eating fruit, meat, insects, earthworms, compost, outdoor pet food, and trash.
\n\n\n\nFire ants thrive in sunny areas and open spaces. Thankfully, their nests are easy to spot on your lawn as these insects create distinct granular mounds up to 4 feet in size.
\n\n\n\nPrevent fire ants by covering trash cans and treating at the first signs of infestation. It is important to maintain a proper watering schedule, ensuring you do not overwater your lawn.
\n\n\n\nThere is no best control method for fire ants. You can use non-repellent pesticides or granular treatments.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Solenopsis
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Sunny, open areas
\n\n\n\nDanger: High; deliver painful bites but rarely sting
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Non-repellent pesticides and granular treatments
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Flea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Erturac / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nFleas are extremely common in Dallas, usually living on your furry animal friend. These tiny, wingless insects are dark brown and the size of a speck of dirt. There are more than 300 species of fleas, and each flea can produce around 500 offspring in its lifetime.
\n\n\n\nFleas enter your yard on the coats of wild animals and quickly jump from pet to human before making their way into your home. They also can find their way into your home through used furniture and clothing, but thankfully, fleas are mainly outdoor pests. These insects love tall grass, debris piles, and bushes.
\n\n\n\nPrevent fleas by grooming your pets, using year-round veterinary flea control, and keeping your lawn maintained. Trim bushes and shrubs and keep bird feeders away from your property.
\n\n\n\nThe best removal method for fleas is propellant insecticide. Alternatively, topical and oral prescriptions, flea shampoo, and pet-safe sprays are available for pet infestations.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Siphonaptera
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist, shady areas
\n\n\n\nDanger: High; bites transmit diseases such as murine typhus, tularemia, and tungiasis
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Propellant pesticides
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Mosquito_Culicidae_Cradley_Herefordshire_UK.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Gailhampshire / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nMosquitoes love Dallas’ subtropical climate. These biting insects have oval-shaped bodies, long legs, and wings. They are brownish black and females feed on human and animal blood, but the mosquito’s primary food source is plant nectar.
\n\n\n\nMosquitoes cause itchy red bumps and spread diseases like Zika virus, encephalitis, and West Nile virus.
\n\n\n\nPrevent these pests by eliminating standing water and food sources. They thrive in moist areas with a lot of flowering vegetation, including ponds, wooded areas, and near swimming pools. Limit flowering plants near your home and maintain proper yard drainage to eliminate standing water.
\n\n\n\nPerform routine yard maintenance, cutting back overgrown vegetation. Professional pest control plans often offer add-on outdoor mosquito control. Additionally, use non-repellent insecticides to help maintain a mosquito-free yard.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Culicidae
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Moist, high-vegetation areas such as forests, ponds, and tall grasses
\n\n\n\nDanger: High; female bites transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, encephalitis, and Zika virus
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Non-repellent pesticides
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/fauna-invertebrate-close-up-spider-arachnid-india-443985-pxhere.com_.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nSpiders catch a bad rap for being scary. These beneficial arachnids are vital to the ecosystem. They have eight legs and two distinct body regions. The most common species found in the Metroplex are black widows, brown recluses, and wolf spiders.
\n\n\n\nMost spider species are not a direct threat to humans. However, the brown recluse and black widow spiders are venomous. Their bites can cause serious reactions in some people.
\n\n\n\nIf you notice webs and have a spider infestation in your yard, it is a signal you have a larger underlying infestation. Spiders move into an area where large populations of insects live and love secluded areas to hide, like garden sheds, tall grasses, covered porches, basements, garages, and crawl spaces.
\n\n\n\nPrevent spiders by eliminating hiding places, maintaining your lawn, and reducing the number of smaller pests in your yard.
\n\n\n\nKnock out an indoor infestation with a repellent pesticide or use a non-repellent pesticide outdoors.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Araneae
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Adaptable; seek shelters and areas to hide
\n\n\n\nDanger: Moderate; venomous spiders can cause allergic reactions in some people
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Repellent and non-repellent pesticides
\n\n\n\n![\"5-6](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3049109271_68829f87c4_c-1-2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jean and Fred Hort / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nTermites are beneficial insects in nature. However, once these wood-chomping social insects wander indoors or near homes, they pose a serious problem. Termites live in large colonies. They are cream, yellow, or brown with elongated bodies and enormous jaws.
\n\n\n\nTermites can cause severe structural damage if left untreated, and unfortunately, most homeowners’ insurance does not cover termite damage. These insects love moist areas such as leaking pipes, basements, foundations, and beneath decks.
\n\n\n\nThe best termite prevention and control is to hire a pest control expert. A routine termite inspection and prevention plan offers peace of mind. If your termite infestation is isolated and contained to the outdoors, you can opt for a DIY solution using a termiticide, a pesticide designed specifically for termites.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Isoptera
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Dark, moist areas with minimal air exposure
\n\n\n\nDanger: Moderate; cause structural damage
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Professional pest control and termiticide
\n\n\n\n![\"An](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/6980305991_3209cd81a6_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sid Mosdell / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nWasps help control insect populations and help pollination. The most common wasp in the Dallas Fort Worth area is paper wasps, recognizable for their pinched waists and long legs. They are black or brown with bright yellow markings and gray wings.
\n\n\n\nPaper wasps are aggressive if their nests are threatened. They are venomous, and some people develop allergic reactions to their stings. These insects are adaptable, forming nests in shrubs, trees, windows, door frames, and overhangs.
\n\n\n\nPrevent wasps by properly sealing garbage cans and eliminating food sources around your entrances.
\n\n\n\nUse a repellent insecticide to treat infestations. When you are certain all residents are dead, scrape and remove the nest left behind.
\n\n\n\nInsect type: Vespidae
\n\n\n\nHabitat: Adaptable; form nests in shrubs, trees, door and window frames, and overhangs
\n\n\n\nDanger: High; deliver painful and venomous stings that can cause allergic reactions in some people
\n\n\n\nRemoval: Repellent pesticide
\n\n\n\nThe mild year-round weather is one of the most attractive things about Texas. Unfortunately, bugs love the subtropical climate as much as humans. Experts recommend quarterly pest control treatments for preventative maintenance.
No, bed bugs are extremely hard to exterminate completely once they have made their way into your home. Treatment requires specialized equipment and training. Your best hope of complete eradication starts by calling a professional in your area for a free quote.
Typically, pest control companies offer separate rodent services. Some companies offer a specialized rodent control and prevention program.
Pests are creepy, crawly nuisances that will inevitably pop up in your home or yard. The best defense against an invasion is routine lawn maintenance and a pest control prevention plan. There are many low-maintenance landscaping options available for Dallas, and be sure to check out our list of the best native plants that will thrive in your Texas landscape.
\n\n\n\nIf you need some help to control a pest invasion, contact a Dallas exterminator today to keep your family and lawn healthy year-round.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Wasp sitting on green leaf / Pexels
\n","title":"11 Worst Bugs in Dallas, TX (and How to Get Rid of Them)","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":2,"src":"/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/1789c/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/107df/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.jpg 320w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/293e9/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.jpg 500w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/f2cbb/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.jpg 800w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/1789c/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.jpg 960w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/c26c2/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/1dd6e/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/67b76/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.webp 320w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/8df11/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.webp 500w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/98a65/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.webp 800w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/1dd6e/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.webp 960w,\n/static/ad54f3c9a1577868f6cfd5d17b28d2a5/3cc96/pexels-skyler-ewing-4784891.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Worst Bugs in Dallas, TX (and How to Get Rid of Them) | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Bugs are common in Dallas thanks to the subtropical climate. Get rid of them with a few simple tips."}}},{"node":{"id":"f852b145-e1c5-52cd-903c-77a769f5e2ae","slug":"how-to-repair-a-vole-damaged-lawn","path":"/pests-and-diseases/how-to-repair-a-vole-damaged-lawn/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Kelly Holland","id":"87ed81cb-6dc6-5b6f-8673-e295fb5aa8f3","path":"/author/karen/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a7bdc84bcad759506a493dca25650999?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"84a346a7-9ce4-5d70-a95f-abcea3779ced","name":"Pests and Diseases","count":10,"path":"/category/pests-and-diseases/"}],"date":"October 14th, 2019","excerpt":"Got voles? Your first clue is likely vole tunnels and lawn damage in the form of snake-like ribbons of dead grass. Here’s how to repair a vole-damaged lawn. Identifying the Problem Voles are small rodents, also known as meadow mice or meadow voles. They’re about 4-8 inches long, and their fur is grey or brown. […]
\n","content":"\nGot voles? Your first clue is likely vole tunnels and lawn damage in the form of snake-like ribbons of dead grass. Here’s how to repair a vole-damaged lawn.
\n\n\n\nVoles are small rodents, also known as meadow mice or meadow voles. They’re about 4-8 inches long, and their fur is grey or brown. They resemble field mice, except they have short tails, short ears, small eyes, and their fur is longer. You can find them throughout the northern United States. They’re most common in meadows and woodland areas, but you’ll also see them in grassy areas and gardens. These critters gnaw on grass, vegetables, tubers, and garden plants — basically, everything you plant in your yard. They’ll also leave gnaw marks on the bark of shrubs and trees, especially in the colder months.
\n\n\n\nVoles like to live under dense brush and mulch, along with wood and rock piles. These shy creatures are active year-round and don’t hibernate. They’re especially active in the winter and early spring, scurrying from their burrow entrances in search of food. According to the University of Massachusetts Extension Turf Program, “Winters with lasting snow cover provide relative protection from predators, and voles enjoy the freedom to construct elaborate and frequently used ‘runway’ systems within the turf canopy.” They move around your lawn, under the snow, eating the grass as they go. Come springtime, you’ll discover the damage when the snow melts.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/GZNmGYcQ1p6mi_jgI0OhRZsxNo_g9EoF0KJtacqcNEjndm2bIBMaDtXCS9QfV5f8Nv_fGPkOEUQ09giIY41Iwcmy3c_ebSa5dsjad0A8aKS_gEZ4sJuMFg-a7jPUr42FNOL-ANW3\")
It’s easy to spot and identify vole damage. They leave rope-looking “vole runways” in your lawn. The creatures create them by eating the grass or plants along their chosen path. They repeatedly use these paths and leave their excrement behind, causing even more damage. These vole runways can lead to their burrow openings. One burrow may have several adults, and a large infestation can mean the vole population has reached up to 500 critters per acre. Voles are prolific breeders with short gestation periods.
\n\n\n\nVoles can also damage trees and shrubs. When food sources are scarce, they’ll eat the bark around the bottoms of trees and shrubs. They’ll also gnaw the roots and low-lying branches if they can get to them. While they prefer young trees, they’ll attack older trees if that’s all they can find. Like lawn damage, this can be tough to spot over the winter because voles do their dirty work under the snow. If voles are girdling your trees or shrubs (eating all the bark around the bottom of the trunk), the trees or shrubs may not survive. In some cases, hiring a professional to prune and/or fertilize may help.
\n\n\n\nOnce you’ve made the unhappy discovery of vole damage, turn your attention to fixing it. There is good news here: In most cases, the damage doesn’t require a complicated fix. Unlike gophers, voles only eat the blades and stems of your grass, and not the roots or crown. So, the grass should grow back as the weather gets warmer.
\n\n\n\nFollow these tips to repair your lawn after vole damage:
\n\n\n\nNow that you’ve repaired your lawn, how do you keep voles from wrecking it again? This answer is a bit more complicated because once voles inhabit your lawn, it’s tough to get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nRemove their hiding places. Keep woodpiles and mulch piles off your lawn and away from trees. Lawn care is also important: Mow, weed, and cut back brush and ground covers to give voles fewer places to hide. You can stop voles from gnawing on new plants by keeping mulch 6 inches from the stem and surrounding them with a wire cage. Shield the base of trees with tree guards or hardware cloth.
\n\n\n\nVole control is easier than getting rid of other small mammals that dig underground tunnels. You can try setting mouse traps on their surface runways with peanut butter as bait. Consider humane traps (not snap traps) that catch but not kill the rodents. Relocate them if that’s allowed in your area. Predator urine (i.e., fox or coyote) is a great repellent. You can buy it at your local garden store near the pest control section. Keep in mind, you need to reapply it every time it rains. Other natural deterrents include castor oil and capsaicin. Capsaicin is the compound that makes peppers “hot.” You can make a spray with water, chopped hot peppers or hot pepper flakes, and biodegradable soap.
\n\n\n\nIf you have a large infestation, you may need the help of a pest management professional.
\n\n\n\nWe’re not making a mountain out of a vole hill! Voles can do some serious damage to your lawn. But you can fix it with a bit of effort and time.
\n","title":"How to Repair a Vole-Damaged Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3951612903225807,"src":"/static/d5468d819d1e6401333b3dbd0da71e65/17291/rsz_vole.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d5468d819d1e6401333b3dbd0da71e65/107df/rsz_vole.jpg 320w,\n/static/d5468d819d1e6401333b3dbd0da71e65/293e9/rsz_vole.jpg 500w,\n/static/d5468d819d1e6401333b3dbd0da71e65/f2cbb/rsz_vole.jpg 800w,\n/static/d5468d819d1e6401333b3dbd0da71e65/17291/rsz_vole.jpg 865w","srcWebp":"/static/d5468d819d1e6401333b3dbd0da71e65/f7fc9/rsz_vole.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d5468d819d1e6401333b3dbd0da71e65/67b76/rsz_vole.webp 320w,\n/static/d5468d819d1e6401333b3dbd0da71e65/8df11/rsz_vole.webp 500w,\n/static/d5468d819d1e6401333b3dbd0da71e65/98a65/rsz_vole.webp 800w,\n/static/d5468d819d1e6401333b3dbd0da71e65/f7fc9/rsz_vole.webp 865w","sizes":"(max-width: 865px) 100vw, 865px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Repair a Vole-Damaged Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"f608fbe5-2120-5d01-a50c-a9820f45fa6e","slug":"difference-between-dead-and-dormant-grass","path":"/blog/home-and-garden/difference-between-dead-and-dormant-grass/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.","name":"Jill Ramone","id":"4c71091e-0a16-561f-8bdf-528214955c18","path":"/author/jillramone/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0caf6c31bc9563a294dd509633a793c6?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"a4b803e1-5b3a-516a-b5b4-c5b50b2ae834","name":"Home & Garden","count":19,"path":"/category/blog/home-and-garden/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"84a346a7-9ce4-5d70-a95f-abcea3779ced","name":"Pests and Diseases","count":10,"path":"/category/pests-and-diseases/"}],"date":"October 9th, 2019","excerpt":"Grass can go kaput any time of year. The hot, dry conditions of summer can leave grass brown and unappealing. Winter snow mold and thatch buildup can leave your grass with dead spots. But is it really dead? Or just dormant? Before taking any action, it’s worth your time to determine if you have a […]
\n","content":"\nGrass can go kaput any time of year. The hot, dry conditions of summer can leave grass brown and unappealing. Winter snow mold and thatch buildup can leave your grass with dead spots. But is it really dead? Or just dormant?
\n\n\n\nBefore taking any action, it’s worth your time to determine if you have a dead lawn or just one that’s taking a nap. You don’t want to rip up a living lawn. Nor do you want to waste time mowing, watering, fertilizing, and trying to revive grass that isn’t coming back.
\n\n\n\nDead grass and dormant grass look much the same. It can be tough to tell the difference, but here’s what the experts say about discerning dead from dormant.
\n\n\n\nDeath is final. But dormancy, while it can look similar, is your lawn’s natural reaction to stress. Even warm-season grasses may turn brown due to the stress of summer’s hot, dry conditions.
\n\n\n\nIf less than half your lawn is dead or you can see surviving green shoots among the brown, crunchy blades of grass, it’s worth a try to save it. It will be less costly than re-sodding the entire lawn. Aerate the lawn. Power aerators work best. Rent one if you don’t own one. Raking the yard will help remove much of the dead grass. Be sure to take up thatch and other debris. Add new grass seed where needed and fertilize and water.
\n\n\n\nIf the entire lawn is dead, there’s no way to save it. It’s time to start over by re-seeding or re-sodding the entire area.
\n\n\n\nDormancy is a lawn’s reaction to heat and a lack of water. The plant gives all its resources to the roots, rather than the leaves. While brown grass may not look very appealing, dormancy is normal and usually lasts around four weeks. As the season’s change and weather conditions become more ideal for grass, your healthy lawn should return. Still, there are some things you can do to push it along a bit.
\n\n\n\nStay away from weed killers and herbicides during dormancy. It can damage already stressed lawns, and it may turn out insects weren’t the problem after all. Kelley Klopp of the Utah State Extension office says, “It is often difficult to diagnose insect problems when the grass is dormant. Be certain you are dealing with an insect problem before using insecticides, and always read and follow label directions.”
\n\n\n\n![\"Watering](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Andw9lRYwcV2ira3fBZXtJbm0tik_FO1QDPhsTv36DbNUSEpQ8J3EOf6TygqImw1exrMUgvfHpHPH5_7qseCijSk4J0Cv2psjB1jEMRWalCOjdiTAx1Q8oKuPuueIeeaUoGrqmHW\")
You can change the design of your yard to help your lawn make it through a drought. Reduce the setting on your mower blades and keep the grass a bit longer. Reduce slopes, if possible, so water doesn’t run downhill and off the grass. Put a greater distance between trees and shrubs and prune regularly, keeping shade to a minimum. And add good topsoil, if necessary.
\n\n\n\nAlso, consider the climate where you live and choose an appropriate turfgrass. Cool-season grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue, thrive in temperatures between 68 and 77 degrees. Building a lawn from these varieties in a hot, dry climate can send them into dormancy early. It can also cause the grass to die. They fare much better in northern parts of the country.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses work well in temperatures of 80 to 95 degrees, as they’re more drought-tolerant. They include Bermuda grass, Buffalo grass, and Zoysia grass, one of the better turfgrasses for hot climates. These lawns are usually started from sod, as they are more challenging to grow from grass seed than cool-season types.
\n\n\n\nBefore you ask “Why is my lawn dying?” make sure it’s not just taking a nap. With a little TLC (tender lawn care,) you’ll have a green lawn again before you know it.
At one time or another, we all deal with grass pains. The distress signal from our lawn seems to get louder in heat, humidity, and rain. From crabgrass to brown spots, there’s a variety of lawn diseases that could be killing the grass. Some require a professional to diagnose them while others give off tell-tale […]
\n","content":"\nAt one time or another, we all deal with grass pains. The distress signal from our lawn seems to get louder in heat, humidity, and rain. From crabgrass to brown spots, there’s a variety of lawn diseases that could be killing the grass. Some require a professional to diagnose them while others give off tell-tale signs, making them easy to identify. Once you identify them, treating lawn diseases is easy.
\n\n\n\nSome lawn diseases can point to a more serious issue, such as poor drainage or pests on your property. The best defense against any fungal disease is a good offense with proper lawn care.
\n\n\n\nBy maintaining a healthy lawn, you give disease little chance to invade. Here are the most common lawn diseases to watch out for.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll know you have take-all root rot when you see yellow grass with irregular shaped thinning. This disease also shows darker grass blades due to poor air circulation and improper watering. The root rot usually appears in Bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass, or Zoysiagrass lawns. Take-All Root Rot can affect your lawn in every season and will spread to the rest of the yard if not treated immediately. Young-ki Jo, a plant pathology specialist with the Texas A&M extension office says take-all root rot shows up when turfgrass is under stress. “Areas that remain wet are prone to the disease. Improve the drainage, and avoid overwatering. It is better to water infrequently but deeply (6 to 8 inches deep) than to give the grass frequent, shallow watering.” He also suggests raking out the areas of dead grass and adding peat moss. The peat moss will alter the pH level of the soil, and the root rot should dissipate.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/fcNBs9w0kiEvpbUOnR7r43z6tw-zF-lvfwWuGn0NbB0cdXKk4yoTO5EYjDlH8h_NLEoyQrWI8ytgzYLSNIs2zRHIzjKvRSdBvjfpXuvmEY-_AZwbx-MCI42S9JGHMprPbTVZgzqJ\")
Brown patch begins with dead rings of grass on the lawn. Also known as large patch, this lawn disease is easy to spot when you notice the donut shapes holes, with new grass growing in the center. St. Augustine lawns are the most prone to this blight which can spread up to 50 square feet from its origin. You can prevent the problem with yearly aeration and by not overwatering. While fertilizing is crucial, overdoing it can be deadly for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nSmall brown patches in the lawn are your first sign of dollar spot. This fungus is well known in the recreational turf industry and is becoming a more significant problem for homeowners as well. Dollar Spot can target both cool-season grasses and warm-season grasses, but it tends to enjoy fescues, ryegrass, Bermuda, and zoysia grasses. This grass disease can show up anytime between late spring to late fall after a stretch of wet conditions. Dollar Spot loves high humidity making it a common problem in southern states. Applying a fungicide to the circular patches is your best bet. To prevent it from returning, make sure to adjust your mower to a higher cutting level and water your lawn deeply but less often.
\n\n\n\n![\"Image](\"https://live.staticflickr.com/1694/26266331395_484179cba7_b.jpg\")
This fuzzy gray substance looks like a science experiment gone wrong. Powdery mildew is the collective name fort a group of fungi that can attach to the grass and plants. You’ll first notice a few white or grey round spots that are easy to wipe away. However, the mildew will quickly take over which can cause significant stress to the grass plant.
\n\n\n\nPowdery mildew won’t kill a plant or lawn right away, but it will choke the plant over time. You’ll notice powdery mildew on the lawn during the heat of the summer when conditions are dry. Prune affected plants and create more airflow around the leaves. Spray the areas with water to wash away the mildew and use a fungicide if needed.
\n\n\n\nYou can thank humid weather and wet conditions in the summer for this disease, Perdue University Plant pathologist Richard Latin says. “Pythium blight outbreaks are especially damaging to creeping bentgrass, annual bluegrass, rough bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass. The Pythium fungus can infect Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue, but the disease is limited and turf is rarely damaged.” It starts with circles of blackened grass blades and expands into wet areas on the lawn. It spreads quickly in shady areas and in compacted soil. Mowing while the grass is wet only makes the problem worse. To prevent Pythium blight, it’s best to apply a fungicide at the beginning of summer.
\n\n\n\nLawn diseases are not the end of the world, but it is important to understand what you’re dealing with, so you can prevent them from spreading. Understanding what the disease is and the associated treatment will help you understand if there are any hidden costs or if you need to hire a professional to help remedy the issue.
\n","title":"How to Treat 5 Common Lawn Diseases","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/6d0c474ba761b713cdd6dd3779972ae6/1789c/Pennisetum_clandestinum_yellowing_fungul_disease-wikimedia.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6d0c474ba761b713cdd6dd3779972ae6/107df/Pennisetum_clandestinum_yellowing_fungul_disease-wikimedia.jpg 320w,\n/static/6d0c474ba761b713cdd6dd3779972ae6/293e9/Pennisetum_clandestinum_yellowing_fungul_disease-wikimedia.jpg 500w,\n/static/6d0c474ba761b713cdd6dd3779972ae6/f2cbb/Pennisetum_clandestinum_yellowing_fungul_disease-wikimedia.jpg 800w,\n/static/6d0c474ba761b713cdd6dd3779972ae6/1789c/Pennisetum_clandestinum_yellowing_fungul_disease-wikimedia.jpg 960w,\n/static/6d0c474ba761b713cdd6dd3779972ae6/356ef/Pennisetum_clandestinum_yellowing_fungul_disease-wikimedia.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/6d0c474ba761b713cdd6dd3779972ae6/1dd6e/Pennisetum_clandestinum_yellowing_fungul_disease-wikimedia.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6d0c474ba761b713cdd6dd3779972ae6/67b76/Pennisetum_clandestinum_yellowing_fungul_disease-wikimedia.webp 320w,\n/static/6d0c474ba761b713cdd6dd3779972ae6/8df11/Pennisetum_clandestinum_yellowing_fungul_disease-wikimedia.webp 500w,\n/static/6d0c474ba761b713cdd6dd3779972ae6/98a65/Pennisetum_clandestinum_yellowing_fungul_disease-wikimedia.webp 800w,\n/static/6d0c474ba761b713cdd6dd3779972ae6/1dd6e/Pennisetum_clandestinum_yellowing_fungul_disease-wikimedia.webp 960w,\n/static/6d0c474ba761b713cdd6dd3779972ae6/93f70/Pennisetum_clandestinum_yellowing_fungul_disease-wikimedia.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Treat 5 Common Lawn Diseases | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"3e37f030-a14b-594d-8a42-f7084ea3b465","slug":"5-most-common-lawn-problems","path":"/lawn-care/5-most-common-lawn-problems/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Bob Greenly has been mowing and caring for lawns since he was 12 years old. His summer job turned into a permanent career after college when he opened his own landscaping company.","name":"Bob Greenly","id":"86622de6-1450-5165-836f-e7397d91491b","path":"/author/bob-greenly/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/38ceb71a8b949ee91fe8f7d81c04ccde?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"84a346a7-9ce4-5d70-a95f-abcea3779ced","name":"Pests and Diseases","count":10,"path":"/category/pests-and-diseases/"}],"date":"November 4th, 2019","excerpt":"If you’ve got a yard, you’re likely spending some time taking care of it. After all your hard work, it can be frustrating to discover unsightly lawn problems. This may be small comfort, but you’re far from alone. The best way to avoid lawn problems is to grow and maintain a healthy lawn. Start by […]
\n","content":"\nIf you’ve got a yard, you’re likely spending some time taking care of it. After all your hard work, it can be frustrating to discover unsightly lawn problems. This may be small comfort, but you’re far from alone.
\n\n\n\nThe best way to avoid lawn problems is to grow and maintain a healthy lawn. Start by choosing a grass type that will grow well in your area. That alone will give your lawn the best chance against pests, weeds and lawn disease. Read on to learn more about the most common problems that may be plaguing your lawn.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/4S-DCXhofFHBaDgbXOWqsRPRmMSnhZqLGHGmXAAMHV15iaGXKjQRchnMgJeTxS4u7m7VB8PnqphYL1Oa1gLlySGuiTPS4SjiMcC9aYQcQNBqtqpvlRIlPCueccRwDMfuXnPTG6-d\")
Brown patch disease happens most frequently during hot, humid summer months. The University of Massachusetts Extension says “Brown patch caused by Rhizoctonia solani is the most widespread of all turf diseases occurring throughout the world and attacking all known turfgrasses.” You’ll notice large irregular circles of brown grass. Tall fescue and ryegrass are particularly susceptible.
\n\n\n\nRust is a fungal disease caused by fungal spores. It leaves yellow-orange spots with a powdery residue in your grass. The spores prey on under-watered and over-watered lawns. They’ll also attack lawns that are lacking in key nutrients like nitrogen.
\n\n\n\nSnow mold develops under snow that sits on your lawn for extended periods. There are two types: pink snow mold and gray snow mold. It appears in early spring when the snow melts as gray or pink-hued patches of white. Pink snow mold can also grow during cool, wet weather without any snow. Prevent snow mold by gradually cutting the grass shorter ahead of winter, and by not leaving a thick layer of leaves on your lawn over the winter. A preventative fungicide may also help.
\n\n\n\nDollar spot shows up as patches of silver-dollar sized brown patches in your lawn. It’s caused by a fungus and is very common on golf courses and recreational turf fields. It affects cool and warm-season grasses and can appear anywhere from late spring to late fall. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and after long periods of wet weather.
\n\n\n\nWhite grubs are beetle larvae and larvae of other types of insects. White grubs feed on grass roots, causing irregular brown spots in your yard. You’ll notice this damage most often in the fall.
\n\n\n\nYou can tell you have an infestation if you can pull up the dead turf like a rug, revealing the C-shaped white larvae on top of the soil. You may also notice birds on your lawn because they love to feast on the grubs. Other animals are attracted to the scent, including raccoons, opossums, moles, and skunks. They’ll dig up your yard to get to the grubs, so lawn damage is another sign you may have an infestation.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/wyUrxwMg673hhLE8s8NmrkONFoFXHp-075zupE9zNyFdaCTv4UeE2mcDY9Vre23NJcJ8QfjPmdJ23PfpJK8_8Cz7O-ypVhff8FFeonNvC6sUNpFqeOYFQCLaPheyp3vCUubbjCPv\")
Weeds may be the king of lawn problems, or at least one of the most common. Weeds like crabgrass and dandelions will take over your yard if given the chance, especially if your lawn isn’t healthy. To avoid this, use good lawn care practices. These include regular mowing with a sharp blade and adequate watering for your grass type. To conserve water, supplement rainfall with a regular watering schedule. Weeds will have a harder time taking hold in a thick, healthy lawn with a healthy root system.
\n\n\n\nThese problems show up for many different reasons. These include foot traffic, lawn diseases, compacted soil or broken or badly adjusted sprinklers. Aerating once a year can help with compacted soil and in the prevention of lawn diseases. Test sprinklers to see if you need to adjust or replace them. In areas with high foot traffic, consider replacing the grass with a pathway using rocks, pavers or wood chips. You could also hardscape the area rather than continually reseeding or replacing the turf.
\n\n\n\nDog urine contains high amounts of nitrogen which can burn your grass and cause it to turn brown. Dark green grass can sometimes ring the brown patches. Train your dog to take care of business in one part of your yard. Consider re-planting damaged grass with a urine-resistant grass like tall fescue or ryegrass.
\n\n\n\nRecognizing these common lawn problems is the first step in fixing them. Preventing these problems before they start is even better. Regular mowing, watering, and lawn care can go a long way in keeping these unwelcome issues off your lawn.
Main image credit: Veracious Rey, CC by-SA 3.0
\n","title":"5 Most-Common Lawn Problems","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5064814814814815,"src":"/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/1789c/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/107df/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.jpg 320w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/293e9/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.jpg 500w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/f2cbb/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.jpg 800w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/1789c/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.jpg 960w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/3f77c/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.jpg 1627w","srcWebp":"/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/1dd6e/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/67b76/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.webp 320w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/8df11/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.webp 500w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/98a65/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.webp 800w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/1dd6e/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.webp 960w,\n/static/a62151b9397f633d267d25b7f43ae420/c6846/wikipedia-typical_suburban_backyard-veracious-Rey-cc30.webp 1627w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Most-Common Lawn Problems | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"52ef8ca4-bcc0-593a-8c1a-729125d132f0","slug":"get-rid-of-grub-worms-in-lawns","path":"/pests-and-diseases/get-rid-of-grub-worms-in-lawns/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"a4b803e1-5b3a-516a-b5b4-c5b50b2ae834","name":"Home & Garden","count":19,"path":"/category/blog/home-and-garden/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"84a346a7-9ce4-5d70-a95f-abcea3779ced","name":"Pests and Diseases","count":10,"path":"/category/pests-and-diseases/"}],"date":"August 7th, 2023","excerpt":"Lawn grubs are a part of the ecosystem. And, of course, we want to preserve the ecosystem. But too much of anything can be a bad thing. Grub worms become a problem when there is a large grub population. They eat grass roots, weakening the bond between the grass and roots and ultimately killing the […]
\n","content":"\nLawn grubs are a part of the ecosystem. And, of course, we want to preserve the ecosystem. But too much of anything can be a bad thing. Grub worms become a problem when there is a large grub population. They eat grass roots, weakening the bond between the grass and roots and ultimately killing the grass. This article tells you how to get rid of grubs in your lawn using natural methods and conventional chemicals.
\n\n\nGrubs are the larvae of beetles like June bugs, Japanese beetles, and June beetles. After the beetles lay eggs, they hatch into larvae that feed on grass roots and need moisture to survive. They are slimy-looking, squishy, and C-shaped, with legs close to their brown heads.
\n\n\n![\"Japanese](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/aa92a5f5-8ab5-406e-a721-72ac486709fc.jpg\")
Infographic by Juan Rodriguez
\n\n\n\nThe eggs hatch, and the white grubs become active in the spring and summer. In the fall, they feed and tunnel further into the soil for protection against upcoming winter weather.
\n\n\n\nGrubs do more than make your grass look unhealthy. By weakening the bond between the grass and grass roots, grubs cause your grass to become unstable. When pulled, patches of grass come up easily and roll up like a carpet. Grass will quickly die once the roots are severed.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThere are a few telltale signs of lawn grubs, like increased animal activity, as critters like skunks and raccoons flock to your yard to feed on the grub worms.
\n\n\n\nWhite grubs dig into grass roots and cause dead patches. Multiple dead patches that do not improve can be a sign of a grub infestation. Although brown patches can be a sign of lawn disease or drought, they are also a major indicator that grub control may be needed if the grass pulls up easily. Remember, patches of grass will roll up like carpet if there is grub damage.
\n\n\n\nBefore you start the process to get rid of grubs, test your yard to make sure grubs are the problem:
\n\n\n\n— In the suspected area, dig up 1 square foot that is about 3 inches deep.
— If you see 5 or fewer grubs, your lawn is normal. Treatment is unnecessary.
— Unhealthy grass will require grub control if there are five to 10 grubs in a single square foot.
— If you see more than 10 grubs, your infestation qualifies as severe, and you may need professional help to treat it.
You can kill grubs without injuring beneficial insects by using organic methods. Natural treatment can take several years, but you, your loved ones, and the environment will be safer for it.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"beneficial](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/85f15946-4a9d-4367-824e-fec8e65433b8.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: CSIRO / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nThese microscopic worms are natural parasites that kill grubs by releasing bacteria. They naturally live in the soil. Homeowners can purchase them at retailers like Walmart and even online from Amazon. Use them soon after purchase, before they die. Water the grass before and after you release the beneficial nematodes into the lawn. The best time to apply the worms is in the afternoon.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMilky spore comes in powder form and can be sprinkled on the lawn. It is a bacterial disease that only kills Japanese beetle grubs. It can take many years for this bacterium to get rid of grubs.
\n\n\n\nTypically, milky spore can be purchased at the same locations as beneficial nematodes. You can find them online at Home Depot and Amazon.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHomeowners can control grubs with a DIY neem oil solution. Neem oil naturally contains ingredients that act as pesticides, like Azadirachtin.
\n\n\n\nRecipe and Directions. Mix 1 teaspoon of pure Castile soap with 1 gallon of warm water. Add 2 tablespoons of raw 100% cold-pressed neem oil. Place the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray your lawn weekly until the grubs are gone, or the population is reduced to a normal level. Apply at dawn or dusk to keep from harming beneficial insects.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"bird](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/d5635a6c-233a-43ad-9848-d4f3f21986db.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Anmol Dash / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nGrubs are tasty little treats for birds like bluejays and robins. Put out birdhouses, birdbaths, and food for birds to attract them to your yard. They will eat your grub problem away while you sit back and watch.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re in an area where you experience droughts in the summer, take advantage of it. Dry out the soil even more by not watering your grass for three to four weeks. Since beetle eggs need moisture to live, drought will act as a natural pesticide and kill the eggs. The dry soil will decrease the subsequent year’s grub population.
\n\n\n\nSome grass types are more drought-tolerant than others, but most healthy lawns will green up when you start re-quenching the grass’s thirst.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nConventional grub control products, like other conventional lawn care agents such as herbicides and insecticides, come with risks to humans, pets, and the environment. Be sure to read product labels and follow the instructions, taking any necessary safety precautions.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCuratives eliminate larvae before they become pupae. They do not kill beetles when they are in their pupae stage, which is after they are larvae but before they become adult beetles. Products that have the ingredients carbaryl or trichlorfon are effective curative products for grubs.
\n\n\n\nCarbaryl kills grubs in about 10 to 14 days. It is more effective at eliminating certain types of grubs, like European chafer grubs, than trichlorfon. Beneficial insects, including bees, are also harmed by carbaryl.
\n\n\n\nTrichlorfon starts to kill grubs in about one to five days.
\n\n\n\nMow the lawn immediately before applying these chemicals to protect bees. Carbaryl and trichlorfon are toxic to these crucial pollinators. They can be harmed if they visit flowering weeds after the lawn is sprayed. Mowing removes the flowers. After the application of curative products, water the lawn with at least 0.5 inches of water.
\n\n\n\nTreat the grass in the early spring or fall with curative killers since this is when grubs are most vulnerable to pesticides. Do not apply curative treatments after mid-May because grubs are no longer feeding. Using carbaryl or trichlorfon in September will kill 20 – 80% of grubs. They will kill 20 – 55% when used in late October.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you already have a grub problem, preventative pesticides will not work. Preventative products are for homeowners who have had past grub problems or who have noticed that their neighbor probably has grubs. These pesticides will decrease your chances of a grub infestation and stop white grubs from invading in the future.
\n\n\n\nChoose preventative pesticides with the chemicals halofenozide or imidacloprid. Imidacloprid and clothianidin are effective on young grubs like European chafers and will kill them as they hatch.
\n\n\n\nPreventative chemicals are more effective at decreasing the grub population than curative methods. Products with these active ingredients can be used in late summer, fall, and early spring. These chemicals kill 75 – 100% of grubs when applied in early summer, in June or July. Be sure to irrigate immediately after application with 0.5 inches of water to get the optimal killing potential.
\n\n\n\nJust as you would with curative agents, mow the lawn immediately preceding the application of preventative pesticides to protect beneficial insects and to ensure the product reaches the grubs in the soil.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"dethatcher](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/hand-scarifiers-g35cd23e32_1920-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: silver bullet66 / Pixabay / License
\n\n\n\nKeeping your lawn healthy will help prevent grubs from taking over and injuring your yard. Thriving turfgrass that is watered regularly (but not overwatered) can withstand five or more grubs per square foot without damage. You want to maintain your grass in a way that facilitates a deeper root system. These lawn care practices will establish the healthy lawn needed to prevent lawn grubs:
\n\n\n\nAre there insecticides that do not work on grubs?
\n\n\n\nYes. The chemicals listed below will not work on grubs unless they are combined with preventative chemicals that are effective for grub control. Do not use products that contain only these chemicals:
\n\n\n\n— Bifenthrin
— Gamma-cyhalothrin
— Lambda-cyhalothrin
— Deltamethrin
— Permethrin
— Cyfluthrin
When is it safe for children and pets to return to the grass after grub control treatment?
\n\n\n\nInsecticides and herbicides, in general, are harmful to humans, especially children, and pets. Wait until after you have watered the grass, and it has completely dried before allowing humans or pets into the affected area.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAre there any active ingredients safe for bees?
\n\n\n\nThe chemical chlorantraniliprole is safe for bees. This active ingredient can be found in some preventive conventional grub control products.
\n\n\n\nUnlike other preventives, it can be used on the lawn any time in the spring after green-up. It is not as effective as other preventive agents, but it will decrease grubs by 65 – 80%. You can apply it between early April and mid-July, but applying it before June ensures maximum killing potential.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDo grubs go away without treatment?
\n\n\n\nNo, they do not. They not only spread quickly, but they also cause both aesthetic damage and damage to grass root systems. Test for grubs or call a professional if you have signs, and start treatment immediately.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHow do you apply conventional curative and preventive grub control products?
\n\n\n\nBoth of these types of products come as liquid and dry granules. Read labels and follow application directions. Liquid pesticides can be applied with a hose spray bottle or a hose sprayer. Granules can be applied with a fertilizer spreader. Some granules need to be mixed with water and sprayed. Some grub control products come in attach-to-hose bottles where the water is automatically mixed upon application.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYou have several options to manage a lawn grub infestation. Fortunately, a few grubs do not indicate a problem. A healthy lawn may contain about five grubs per square foot and not have any damage. Always do a test before starting treatment. For the most accurate analysis, call a lawn pest control professional.
WikiLawn can connect you to qualified lawn care pros in your area for all your lawn care needs, including grub detection and treatment.
Main Photo Credit: CSIRO / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n","title":"How to Get Rid of Grubs in Your Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.492537313432836,"src":"/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/1789c/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/107df/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/293e9/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/f2cbb/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/1789c/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/c26c2/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/1dd6e/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/67b76/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.webp 320w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/8df11/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.webp 500w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/98a65/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.webp 800w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/1dd6e/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.webp 960w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/3cc96/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Get Rid of Grubs in Your Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Learn about natural living organisms that kill grubs, DIY solutions, and conventional chemicals that get rid of grubs from your lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"b8bfca12-325b-51c2-b16e-57cc0621204d","slug":"how-to-repair-prevent-dog-pee-spots-lawn-grass","path":"/lawn-care/how-to-repair-prevent-dog-pee-spots-lawn-grass/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Tina Hill is a landscape designer who stages homes before they go on the market. She recently remodeled her own backyard to include covered hardscaped areas along with an outdoor kitchen and fireplace.","name":"Tina Hill","id":"05b33636-8a93-5cbe-a32e-4d72278ff06f","path":"/author/tina-hill/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8f78fd5fd50db11dcceecbeb20de206e?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"84a346a7-9ce4-5d70-a95f-abcea3779ced","name":"Pests and Diseases","count":10,"path":"/category/pests-and-diseases/"}],"date":"October 9th, 2019","excerpt":"Your lawn looks beautiful! Well, almost. Some of the grass is thick and green, but unfortunately, some of it shows signs of Spot’s spots. Your dog’s urine has left a number of brown patches, dog-gone-on-it. It’s a problem all dog owners face, but a little know-how and work will fix those dog pee spots in […]
\n","content":"\nYour lawn looks beautiful! Well, almost. Some of the grass is thick and green, but unfortunately, some of it shows signs of Spot’s spots. Your dog’s urine has left a number of brown patches, dog-gone-on-it.
\n\n\n\nIt’s a problem all dog owners face, but a little know-how and work will fix those dog pee spots in the grass.
\n\n\n\nDog urine is rich in nitrogen content, which kills grass when concentrated amounts collect in your turf over time. A small amount of lawn fertilizer makes your yard healthy and gives you a nice carpet of green grass, but too much will create urine burn and kill grass.
\n\n\n\nThe problem of dog spots is worse in female dogs, puppies, and older dogs, all of which tend to squat and concentrate pee in one spot. Healthy males and some females will move around more, marking trees and shrubs in their territory.
\n\n\n\nWhile there’s nothing beneficial about dog pee and marking inside your home, there’s a reason your dog marks its territory in your yard. Those yellow spots and the scent let other dogs know who owns this yard. It can also discourage rodents and other predators from entering your yard. (Some dogs — terriers in particular — are excellent mousers!)
\n\n\n\nThe waste stream from Fido and Fluffy also keeps pesky squirrels out of your garden. The Old Farmers’ Almanac suggests dog urine as a free version of pricey squirrel-deterrent sprays. “These are meant to be sprayed around gardens to keep squirrels away.” Why buy packaged products when you’ve got the real thing? “A dog or cat is a great squirrel chaser if that’s an option.” Just the sound of a squirrel is enough to get some dogs running. The Almanac goes on to suggest, “Scatter dog or human hair around your garden.”
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/KgXlUNXomsGoH8jecCjsKFDXTSjhr7bvhygh0VPxINA7lVqQTXfJzHOspDMGuj_8SEJBA_XyRxEYiDwuqTtuD2rI73eqBfMG2F-YR-xZQK3AZW2dET-GR5NT6OsX0V2hm2YOUxLF\")
Even though your dog creates dead spots in your lawn, he still deserves praise for peeing outside. A few brown spots on your otherwise green grass are easier to repair than a soiled carpet or sofa. Don’t punish your dog for doing what comes naturally and don’t be fooled by products you can add to the dog’s water, and that claim to neutralize the problem. Your dog’s diet isn’t killing your grass. By adding pH-changing supplements to his diet, you may be subjecting him to bladder stones and other health problems. And if you’re trying to stop him from peeing on the grass, you’re barking up the wrong tree.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/E4E1By17NfH6BeNsj3Nuv0wJFEIUzZW2JI41dL2mZrCrQAzF_xI0Qr4RHpcQ97Ci5_vx4n959sKKICGYWpVjPAWzziLySwlOAyw1zkHEQZxUvtUDRQ-445uvDo_tjBhhTmzYQksl\")
Give your pooch a special marking post such as a boulder or fake water hydrant to entice him to only pee in one place. A word of caution: Don’t use a strongly scented repellent to keep him away from other areas. This will only encourage him to try to mark those areas more often to overcome the scent.
\n\n\n\nDead turf is easy to replace. Remove it along with some of the soil underneath. Add fresh soil and seed or install a patch of sod. Make sure you’re the one watering it this time, not your dog.
\n","title":"How to Prevent, Repair Dog Pee Spots in your Grass","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4988290398126465,"src":"/static/10933dfd746b14c2ab1f83d058b32dca/1789c/dog-peeing-on-tree-trunk-pixaby1694209_1280.jpg","srcSet":"/static/10933dfd746b14c2ab1f83d058b32dca/107df/dog-peeing-on-tree-trunk-pixaby1694209_1280.jpg 320w,\n/static/10933dfd746b14c2ab1f83d058b32dca/293e9/dog-peeing-on-tree-trunk-pixaby1694209_1280.jpg 500w,\n/static/10933dfd746b14c2ab1f83d058b32dca/f2cbb/dog-peeing-on-tree-trunk-pixaby1694209_1280.jpg 800w,\n/static/10933dfd746b14c2ab1f83d058b32dca/1789c/dog-peeing-on-tree-trunk-pixaby1694209_1280.jpg 960w,\n/static/10933dfd746b14c2ab1f83d058b32dca/356ef/dog-peeing-on-tree-trunk-pixaby1694209_1280.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/10933dfd746b14c2ab1f83d058b32dca/1dd6e/dog-peeing-on-tree-trunk-pixaby1694209_1280.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/10933dfd746b14c2ab1f83d058b32dca/67b76/dog-peeing-on-tree-trunk-pixaby1694209_1280.webp 320w,\n/static/10933dfd746b14c2ab1f83d058b32dca/8df11/dog-peeing-on-tree-trunk-pixaby1694209_1280.webp 500w,\n/static/10933dfd746b14c2ab1f83d058b32dca/98a65/dog-peeing-on-tree-trunk-pixaby1694209_1280.webp 800w,\n/static/10933dfd746b14c2ab1f83d058b32dca/1dd6e/dog-peeing-on-tree-trunk-pixaby1694209_1280.webp 960w,\n/static/10933dfd746b14c2ab1f83d058b32dca/93f70/dog-peeing-on-tree-trunk-pixaby1694209_1280.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Prevent, Repair Dog Pee Spots in your Grass | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}}],"postCity":{}}}}![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/jisN2zveCc9bCch5U9zv7OrRNV-w2Ej6UitCpAVO9GS444XuyEQ_mce6aWDy7PxMqCp4cFFhcTVUdLlrnF_oMvUu-1rvZ_82X1unh1FZS4kTSSDi7Cd6wx0xxMXaPokGtXqaFh_t\")