Common Lawn Pests

A close-up of a greenish-brown caterpillar with dark stripes crawling on a partially eaten blade of grass—an example of why effective weed control SWFL is vital—with small droppings nearby and blurred grass in the background.

Southwest Florida is a paradise for plants, but unfortunately, it is also a haven for pests. From lawn-damaging insects like Chinchbugs and Sod Webworms to household invaders like Roaches and Ants, identifying the problem is the first step toward a solution. Explore our guide to the most common local pests and learn how Green Smart Lawn & Pest keeps them off your property

A close-up of a black and white insect with long antennae and patterned wings, shown on a plain white background, often seen in areas where lawn pest control Fort Myers is essential for healthy lawns.

Chinch Bugs

Chinch bugs are among the most common and devastating pests that St. Augustine lawns face. Chinch Bugs do their damage by working in large numbers throughout the warm Southwest Florida months which can range from April through October. These tiny little insects tap into the stolon of the leaf blade and draw out essential nutrients. If left untreated Chinch Bugs can completely destroy a St. Augustine lawn past the point of no return.

A close-up of a white, segmented grub with a brown head, small legs, and a curled, plump body against a plain background—an important pest to watch for if you’re considering lawn treatment Cape Coral or lawn fertilization Fort Myers.

Grub Worms

Grub Worms are a vicious subterranean insect that enjoys feasting on the root system of your St. Augustine lawn. Otherwise known as “Grubs”, they will move throughout the lawn chewing off anchor points for the turf grass runners. The tell-tale signs of “Grubs” are runners that stick up into the air because they are no longer attached to the soil, or turf that no longer feels anchored to the soil when you pull on it. The leaf blade tips will also begin to turn a yellowish color due to a lack of nutrients from not having any roots. In Southwest Florida, they are more common in the Fall.

A close-up view of a whitefly with powdery wings and body, showing its legs and antennae against a white background—an example of pests addressed by expert lawn pest control Fort Myers services.

Ficus Whitefly

Ficus Whitefly is commonly found in Southwest Florida. They are small winged insects that feed on the underside of the leaf with their tiny piercing mouthpart causing the plant to drop it’s leaves. Ficus whitefly is best controlled with a contact and systemic insect control spray. It is also recommended to fertilize the ficus after a whitefly attack to help it recover it’s foliage.

A close-up of a fuzzy, orange caterpillar with long black spines and two black tufts on its back, set against a white background—a reminder of the importance of effective lawn pest control in Fort Myers.

Oleander Caterpillar

Oleander Caterpillars are commonly found in our area of Southwest Florida. They feed on the foliage of the oleander plant leaving them bare to the stems. Oleander caterpillars can be controlled with insect control sprays.

A close-up image of a brown and green-striped caterpillar with a segmented body and multiple legs, isolated on a white background—an example often seen in lawn pest control Fort Myers services.

Fall Armyworm

You may begin to find Fall Armyworm damage in the Southwest Florida area starting in August. They are a leaf feeding caterpillar that will later turn into a moth. The areas of St. Augustine turf will begin to look distressed and sick, almost as if the lawn were to be affected by fungus. However, if you look closely, you can see notched leaf blades and may even find the worm itself. Because Fall Aryworms are common during our rainiest months, many people do initially assume they have a fungus. Armyworm damage is easily treatable and the turf grass recovers quickly.

A close-up of a cream and black speckled beetle with long legs and antennae, commonly found during lawn treatment Cape Coral, isolated on a white background.

Sri Lanka Weevil

The Sri Lankan Weevil is an invasive species that enjoys feasting on a wide variety of our Southwest Florida ornamental plants. You can find them on Robellini palms, Buttonwoods, Loquat trees, Orchid trees and many more. The Sri Lankan Weevil can be controlled through the use of proper pesticide applications.

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Welcome to Green Smart, providing the premier Lawn Care Fort Myers homeowners rely on. We understand that a healthy, vibrant lawn and a pest-free home are paramount to your family’s comfort and well-being. That’s why our comprehensive lawn and landscape treatments are designed to nourish and safeguard your green spaces, providing the essential nutrients and preventative measures against pests and diseases. Simultaneously, our robust Home Pest Control services effectively target and eliminate common household pests, ensuring a serene, safe living environment. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained, secure home and garden.

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Common Lawn Pests

Common Lawn Pests

Chinch Bugs

Grub Worms

Ficus Whitefly

Oleander Caterpillar

Fall Armyworm

Sri Lanka Weevil

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