The Armyworm Invasion: A Growing Concern for North and Central Texas
As the sun sets over the lush lawns and pastures of North and Central Texas, a silent menace emerges. They slither across the greenery in a sort of formation, munching on grass, plants, and even the most stubborn of weeds. At just an inch to an inch-and-a-half long, these caterpillars might not seem particularly destructive at first glance. However, don’t be fooled by their size or appearance; these are armyworms, and they are wreaking havoc across the region this fall.
What Are Armyworms?
Armyworms, aptly named for their tendency to march in troops, have hatched in alarming numbers this season. Reports from gardening groups on social media are flooded with images of the caterpillars and the devastation they leave behind—once-vibrant lawns turned brown and lifeless. Lawn care companies are inundated with calls, and agricultural organizations are issuing urgent alerts to the public.
“Watch for an Armyworm Feeding Frenzy,” warned a headline from Dairy Herd Management, emphasizing the speed at which these pests can reduce fields to mere sticks and stubble.
The Perfect Conditions for an Outbreak
Sonja Swiger, an entomologist with Texas A&M AgriLife, explains that a relatively rainy summer combined with an abundance of lush greenery has created the perfect breeding ground for armyworms. Swiger herself has witnessed the caterpillars feasting near her crepe myrtles in Stephenville, located about 80 miles southwest of Fort Worth. “They feed on grasses, pastures, parks, yards,” she notes. “They have a very large palate and can pretty much eat anything.”
Identifying Armyworms
Fall armyworms can vary in color, ranging from brown to gray, green, or yellow-green. A distinctive feature to help identify them is the upside-down Y shape on their heads. According to Texas A&M AgriLife, these pests undergo four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
As caterpillars, they feast voraciously on grass, preparing for their transformation into adult moths. Once they reach the adult stage, they can lay up to 1,000 eggs in a single night, often on the undersides of leaves or structures like fence posts and house siding. Although adult moths live only a couple of weeks, the damage caused by their larvae can be extensive. Swiger warns that these worms can devastate an entire football field in just two or three days.
The Impact on Local Landscapes
Dustin Sykes, owner of Sykes Turf Management in Howe, has seen a significant uptick in calls about armyworms this year, starting as early as August—weeks ahead of the usual timeline. He now receives up to 200 calls a week, with reports of armyworms ravaging entire properties. One alarming case involved a woman who lost 16 acres of grass in just 48 hours.
“You can actually see the grass moving,” Sykes describes, recalling his 15 years of experience in lawn care. “I’ve seen five acres wiped out overnight, and I’ve seen one house hit and not another house on that block. They’re unpredictable.”
Recognizing the Damage
The damage caused by armyworms can initially resemble drought stress, making it difficult for homeowners to identify the true culprit. However, if left untreated, the situation can escalate to complete loss of foliage. Both Swiger and Sykes recommend checking for armyworms during the morning and evening when they are most active.
According to Texas A&M, infestations of two to three armyworms per square foot may warrant the use of insecticides to protect crops. Fortunately, if the infestation is caught early enough, the grass may recover on its own without the need for chemical intervention.
The Seasonal Cycle of Armyworms
Fall armyworms are particularly sensitive to cold weather, which means they typically retreat from North Texas with the first freeze of the year, usually occurring in November. This seasonal cycle offers a glimmer of hope for beleaguered homeowners and lawn care professionals alike, as the onset of winter brings a natural end to the armyworm threat.
Conclusion
As the armyworm invasion continues to unfold across North and Central Texas, awareness and vigilance are key. Homeowners are encouraged to stay informed and proactive in monitoring their lawns for signs of these destructive pests. With the right knowledge and timely action, it is possible to mitigate the damage and protect the beauty of Texas landscapes.