Fall armyworms are being reported in lawns and pastures across South Carolina. If you notice caterpillars feeding or moving in large numbers during the early morning or late evening hours, you may have an infestation. Also, birds or wasps feeding in the lawn may be indicators of an armyworm infestation. If you suspect the presence of armyworms in your lawn, mix 1-2 tablespoons of dish detergent in 1-2 gallons of water and then mix until suds appear. Then, slowly pour the soapy mixture over a 1 square yard section of healthy turfgrass directly next to damaged areas. Armyworms, if present, will emerge within 10 minutes of pouring. Consider management recommendations from our factsheet HGIC 2159, Armyworms to avoid serious lawn damage.
Armyworms (Spodoptera spp.) can be easily identified in larval stages by the inverted “Y” shape on their heads.
Adam Gore ©2021, Clemson Extension
Armyworms (Spodoptera spp.) can reach up to 1½ inches in length during the larval stages.
Adam Gore ©2021, Clemson Extension
