Lawn and Ornamental Pests

Lawn and ornamentals pests are broad terms to describe the types of insects that can be seen out in our landscapes. These insects can be broken down in the subcategories of beneficial pests and problematic pests. Problematic pests tend to get all the attention, but using certain plant selections can draw in beneficial insects which can elevate a landscape to the next level (butterfly gardens).

Beneficial Pests:

Assassin bugs, Bees, Butterflies, Dragonflies, Earwigs, Spiders, Lacewings, Lady bugs, Lady Beetle, Praying Mantids, Stink Bugs, Wasps, Yellowjackets etc.

These insects all play a part in biologically controlling the problematic pests that can destroy landscapes. Think of them as miniature pest control operators.

Problematic Pests:

Billbugs, Fall Armyworms, Cutworms, Grass Loopers, Fire Ants, Grasshoppers, Ground Peals, Mole Crickets, Chinch Bug, Spittlebug, Tropical Sod Webworm, White Grubs, Aphids, Beetles, Caterpillars, Scale, Mealybugs, Mites, Snails, Slugs, Sri Lanka Weevils, White Fly, Thrips, et cetera.

The list goes on and new invasive species are added to it all the time.

Are Lawn and Ornamental Pests Dangerous?

There are lawn and ornamental pests that can be dangerous depending on the situation. For example, a sting from a fire ant or a bee could possibly cause an allergic reaction in someone and put them into anaphylactic shock. Typically. most lawn and ornamental pests only present problems to the species of lawn or plant they tend to infest.

Why Do I Have A Lawn or Ornamental Pest Problem?

Depending on the plant or lawn species selection present in your landscape, you may be drawing certain insects to your property. For example, Ficus is notorious for attracting white fly which can be costly to treat.

How Do I Get Rid Of Lawn and Ornamental Pests?

Getting rid of lawn and ornamental pests is a lot easier said than done. Identifying the problem is the first step in gaining control of these pests. Certain products may have no effect on some insects, so broad applications are not recommended when it comes to treatments. Hiring an experienced lawn and ornamental pest service can go a long way on delivering a beautiful landscape.

How Can I Prevent Lawn and Ornamental Pests?

We highly recommend planting native plants in your landscapes as these plants are best adapted to survive in South Florida. In addition, having a regular lawn and ornamental pest service can help eliminate a problem before it shows up.