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Know Your Armyworms
Homeowners in Wichita, Overland Park, and across Kansas often wake up to brown patches that were green last week. Armyworms are a common cause.
Armyworms are hungry caterpillars. They eat grass blades and can strip a lawn fast.
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Knowing the signs early helps you save the lawn.
Armyworms Activity in the Kansas & Missouri Corridor.
Wichita and the Kansas City area get armyworm outbreaks in late summer and early fall. Warm, humid weather helps them grow.
They move in groups, so damage can spread in just a few days.
What Types of Armyworms Live in Kansas?
Smart Armyworm Control You Can Trust
Most Kansas armyworm calls come from a few common types.
Fall armyworms are the most common lawn type in late summer.
They are green to brown and have an upside down Y on the head.
True armyworms show up earlier and feed on grasses and grain.
Both types hide in the thatch by day and feed at dawn and dusk.
If you are not sure what you have, send us a photo.
Armyworms vs Other Lawn Problems
Armyworms do not bite or sting. They are not a danger to people or pets.
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They harm lawns by chewing the grass blades.
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Grubs, drought, and disease can look alike, so a quick check helps.
Why Armyworms Are a Problem Near Kansas Homes
Brown, ragged patches make a lawn look rough.
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Damage can spread across a lawn in just a few days.
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Birds feeding in the grass often show up first.
Common Warning Signs of Armyworms
Armyworm damage can look like drought, so look closely.
Brown Patches: Dead looking patches that spread fast.
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Chewed Blades: Grass blades that look ragged or cut short.
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Birds Feeding: Groups of birds working through the lawn.
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Visible Caterpillars: Green or brown caterpillars in the grass at dawn or dusk.
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Droppings: Tiny dark specks on grass and sidewalks.
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Moths: Gray moths flying over the lawn at night.
When Is Armyworm Season in Kansas?
Armyworms are most active from August through October.
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True armyworms can show up in spring.
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The best time to act is early, when the caterpillars are small.
Why Kansas Homes Attract Armyworms
A few common conditions around Kansas yards can make armyworm problems more likely.
These include:
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Warm, humid late summers
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Lush, well fed lawns
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Thick thatch that hides the caterpillars
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Lights that draw adult moths at night
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Nearby fields or lawns with armyworms
How Professional Armyworm Control Works
Good armyworm control starts with checking the lawn to see what is really there.
At Bug Shockers Pest Control, we start by looking at the damaged areas.
We check the grass and thatch to confirm armyworms are the cause.
Then we choose the right treatment and timing for your lawn.
We often treat quickly, since damage can spread fast.
We explain what we find in plain language, so you know what to expect.
Can Armyworm Problems Be Prevented?
You can lower the risk, but no lawn is ever fully armyworm free.
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Check your lawn on warm evenings in late summer.
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Water deeply, and mow at a healthy height.
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Do not overfeed the lawn late in summer.
When Should You Call About Armyworms?
Call if patches spread fast, or if birds keep feeding in your lawn.
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Call if you cannot reach the problem safely, or if damage keeps getting worse. We can look at the property, tell you what is going on, and suggest a next step.
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You can also send us a photo. We are happy to help you figure out what you have.
Get in Touch with Us
Questions or ready to schedule? Our family-owned team is standing by to help you get back to living worry-free. From Sedgwick County to Johnson County, we provide the expert care you deserve with no contracts required.
5.0 stars · 350+ reviews
3x Best of Wichita Gold Winner
No Contracts required
Family-owned & operated since 2011
Prefer to call or text?
Wichita area: (316) 775-7867 or Overland Park and the KC Metro: (913) 222-2847
Protect Your Kansas Lawn from Armyworms
Armyworms are a late summer and fall concern in Kansas. Acting early makes the job easier.
Bug Shockers is local and family-owned, with no contracts and a 5.0 star rating. We are happy to take a look.
Reach out any time with questions.
Related Armyworm Pages
Frequently Asked Armyworm Questions
How do I know if I have armyworms?
Look for brown patches that spread fast and birds feeding on the lawn. Check the grass at dawn or dusk for caterpillars.
Do armyworms kill lawns?
They can damage a lawn fast. Many lawns recover with water and care if you catch them early.
Are armyworms harmful to people or pets?
No. They do not bite or sting. They only harm the grass.
How do armyworms differ from grubs?
Armyworms chew the blades above ground. Grubs eat the roots under the soil.
When should I call a pro for armyworms?
Call if patches spread fast or the lawn keeps getting worse. We can take a look and suggest a plan.