One very common problem in Houston area lawns in the end of summer is chinch bugs. While chinch bugs are fairly easy to treat if properly identified, often Take All Patch (which is a soil issue) is confused with a chinch bug problem.
What Are Chinch Bugs?
Chinch bugs are a noxious insect which sucks juice from the grass stolon, causing the plant to yellow and die. They are particularly fond of St. Augustine grass, and as this is the predominant variety in our lawns, this is a very common problem that we see in the Kingwood villages and Northeast Houston area.
How to Identify Chinch Bugs
If a dead patch in your lawn is near the sidewalk or driveway, the odds are that it is caused by chinch bugs. However, to be sure you must examine the patch very closely looking for the bugs.
One recommendation is to mix one fluid ounce of dishwashing liquid with two gallons of water. Pour the solution over a four foot area close to the edge of the affected area. If the dead patch is caused by chinch bugs, they will surface and crawl on the grass blades within a couple of minutes.
Or take the easy route and bring an 8 inch square of the affected part of your lawn with as much of the roots as you can into the garden center, and we will identify it for you.
Chinch Bugs Treatment for Texas Lawns
While there are several methods of chinch bug control, one of the most effective methods we have found for Texas lawns is the application of Nitrophos Bug Out Max, which is an insecticide. Stop by the Kingwood Garden Center and our staff will be happy to help you pick the best treatment for your lawn
