Hey everyone!
I’ve been battling cutworms in my lawn for weeks and need your expertise! These pests are destroying my grass overnight—I’m finding brown patches and chewed-off seedlings everywhere. I’ve tried hand-picking them at dusk and sprinkling coffee grounds, but they keep coming back. Since I have kids and pets, I’m hesitant to use harsh chemicals.
Cutworms are moth larvae that curl into a “C” shape when disturbed. They’re active in spring/fall, thrive in moist soil, and devour grass roots/stems. I’ve read about nematodes or BT spray, but I’d love real-world advice!
BT (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray saved my lawn! It’s organic and targets only caterpillars. Spray at dusk when cutworms feed. Safe for pets after it dries, just keep them away during application!
@ScienceBuffBen That sounds promising! Where do you buy BT spray? Does it work on other pests too?
Attract birds! Install birdbaths and avoid pesticides. Robins love cutworms. I also till my soil in late fall, exposes larvae to frost.
Diatomaceous earth around plant bases! It shreds their exoskeletons but doesn’t harm earthworms. Reapply if it gets wet.
Prevention tip: Mow high (3-4 inches) and remove thatch. Cutworms hate dense, healthy grass. Also, plant marigolds as a border, their scent repels moths!
@NatureLover64 Marigolds are a great idea! Do they need full sun?
Nematodes! Spray parasitic nematodes with a hose-end sprayer. They invade cutworm larvae and kill them organically. Works best in damp soil!
Toilet paper rolls as seedling collars! Slide them 1 inch into soil, creates a physical barrier. Also, sprinkle cornmeal near damaged areas. Cutworms eat it and bloat.
Hand-pick them with a flashlight after dark! Drop into soapy water. Tedious but effective for small lawns.