Insect Control | Lawn Care Tips | Info | Rideau's Lawn Sprinkler

It is our belief and a way to be kind to the environment, that you do not put down insecticides unless you know you have a problem. However, be prepared during the hot, summer months -- namely, July through September -- to attack damages caused by sod webworms, white grubs, and chinch bugs. This will show up as irregular shaped spots in the lawn along the concrete. (See chart). Any liquid insecticide like Dursban, or Sevin will treat the spots well. Then apply a granular insecticide like Dursban, or Deltamethrin in a broadcast applicator throughout the rest of the yard.

In order to prevent chinch bugs (click here to see an actual photo of an adult chinch bug) in the hot Texas summer the best solution is to use liquid Dursban. Apply per instructions. We believe the best time to apply liquid Dursban is in the late evening so that it can work overnight and not dry out from the hot, direct sunshine.

Follow up with a second treatment one week later. If it is exceptionally hot and dry, you may need to apply a third treatment another week later. After your last treatment, you may apply granular Dursban or Diazinon one week later in order to maintain protection; however be sure to water extensively after applying a granular treatment.

Many may not agree with our agressive approach to treating for chinch bugs...but we have seen people apply one treatment, only later to have their yard show late-stage damage. (see photo)

At this point you will need to re-sod (replant) in order to repair the damage. All the fertilizing, watering, etc. will not help. Remember, chinch bugs are very very agressive. To get rid of them, you also need to be agressive. Enough said!