Annual Bluegrass Weevil
The mild winter and early spring should allow for a higher than normal ABW population in 2012. We have been monitoring these pests as they slowly advance west, across Ohio, during the last several years.
For those of you that have not had to combat their destructive behavior yet, don’t be caught off guard. The damage that is caused by the larvae is often mistaken as cart traffic or hot spots. Early detection of adults is the key to successful prevention. Performing weekly soap flushes during early spring will determine if they have made it to your course. Mix 2 tablespoons of lemon scented dish soap in one gallon of water and flush a four square foot area during a warm afternoon. Within a few minutes, adult weevils, as well as many other invertebrates will appear on the surface. It is recommended to test several areas on your property throughout early spring. It is also a good idea to dilute the test area, when completed, with a few gallons of clean water to minimize any detergent burn.
Advanced Turf Solutions offers several great products to aid in your fight against ABW’s. I encourage you to contact your representative for any assistance in dealing with our newest insect pests.
Thank you,
Morgan Timberlake