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WHAT IS A CHINCH BUG?
Chinch bugs are small insects that start with reddish-brown bodies in their young stages and mature into black and white adults. In late spring, chinch bugs mate and lay their eggs in hot, dry locations, often on south-facing hillsides or bare areas with a lot of sunlight. The eggs hatch in early to mid-summer, and the young chinch bugs (nymphs) begin feeding, causing damage to lawns. Damage from chinch bugs resembles drought conditions, with grass turning yellow/brown. If the problem is ignored or mistaken for drought, the patches will grow as the insects mature and spread. Chinch bugs can ruin a lawn in as little as three weeks without control measures.
WHAT WE ARE SEEING ON LAWNS - SUMMER 2024:
To effectively manage chinch bugs, it's crucial not to wait until visible damage appears. Even if customers don't see the bugs or damage spots, the pests might still be present. Our strategy is to apply treatments early, targeting young chinch bugs when their numbers are still manageable. Waiting until visible signs of infestation increases the likelihood of extensive damage and makes control efforts more challenging. During our services and Mid-Summer inspections, we may not always see the bugs, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Currently, we're observing all stages of chinch bugs on lawns. The hot and dry days in June could have caused small hatchings, and the recent July rain likely kept the young bugs from causing immediate damage.
MY LAWN ALREADY HAS CHINCH BUG DAMAGE. WHAT CAN I DO?
Bare areas damaged by chinch bugs need attention and will not recover on their own. If left untreated, these areas will look unsightly and attract weeds and other pests that prefer hot, dry bare spots. Weed Man recommends overseeding these bare areas. While it's impossible to guarantee chinch bugs won't return, making conditions less favorable for them can help prevent future infestations.
HOW DOES WEED MAN TREAT CHINCH BUGS?
Our licensed and fully trained technicians focus on high-risk areas where chinch bugs thrive—south-facing slopes, high-heat areas, locations with past chinch damage, and current feeding sites. We stand behind our work and offer a no-charge re-application if the initial treatment was not done properly. However, severe infestations may require more than one application. Our expert staff will advise if a second treatment is necessary and discuss the cost or suggest alternatives such as overseeding to repair damaged areas.
The product and procedures used by Weed Man for chinch bug control vary by province and are selected based on provincial and local regulations. All products used by our licensed and trained technicians are safe for humans, pets, and the environment when used according to the label. They are approved for chinch bug control by the Pest Management Regulatory Authority branch of Health Canada and comply with provincial and municipal pesticide rules. For more information on our chinch bug products and procedures in your area, visit the relevant link below:
· Nova Scotia Chinch Bug Procedure
· New Brunswick Chinch Bug Procedure
Protecting your lawn from chinch bugs requires vigilance and timely action. At Weed Man, we are committed to helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful lawn. If you suspect chinch bug activity or need assistance with lawn care, our licensed professionals are here to provide expert advice and effective treatments. Contact your local Weed Man today to ensure your lawn stays lush and vibrant all season long.
