| How do I treat an area of the lawn that has been destroyed by chinch bugs? What are the pesticides? |
| A well fertilized and nutrient-rich lawn can withstand a chinch bug attack. Thus, good lawn care is the best prevention against chinch bug damage. Understanding chinch bugs, the conditions they favor and their life cycle is very helpful in control. Keep the lawn well fertilized and take caution not to add too much or too little nitrogen. Use proper mowing techniques which include cutting grass two to four inches (6-7 1/2 cm) high, removing thatch, maintaining proper moisture levels, avoiding water buildup, aerating the lawn if it is compacted and using a resistant variety of grass. If physical methods are not effective, use a pesticide which will have a minimal impact on both you and the environment. Bayer Advanced? Complete Insect Killer will control chinch bugs. You'll need to use a spreader (check the back of the package for calibration). You can apply the product now. Or you can use an insecticidal soap spray on areas where damage has occurred. Diatomaceous earth can also be used to control chinch bugs. Diatomaceous earth is an insecticidal dust which acts as an abrasive. It cuts the outer layer of the chinch bug's body causing it to dehydrate and then die. Products containing pyrethrin can also be used. Best wishes with your lawn! |
