If you live in a warmer climate, you probably heard of the fall armyworm. This insect can kill an entire lawn in 48 hours if not treated. In 2010, we saw our first case of armyworms in Highlands. From that point on, has changed the way we address pest control at HCC and the products we use. I am no advocate that climate change is taking place but there are changes occuring in our environment annually. For example, prior to 2003, we never applied a wall to wall crabgrass pre-emergent. It simply wasn't needed. The same can be said for grub control. Prior to 2003-04, grub control wasn't needed. Now, if we miss only a tiny area, we will certainly see a white grub infestation come September. These three examples are typically problems in warmer climates. Superintendents have to be open minded, constantly scouting the property for things we never thought we would see. Other examples of perennial problems in the mountains are Pythium Root Dysfuntion (fungus) and Annual Bluegrass Weevil.
Above, is the adult moth of an armyworm. The destructive stage of the insect is the caterpillar stage; the top photo.