Chinch bugs thrive in hot, dry weather, and sunny areas of the lawn are usually the most affected. All common turf grass species in Ontario are susceptible to chinch bug feeding, although some varieties may be more susceptible to chinch bug damage than others.
Because chinch bug damage often begins as localized dead patches, early detection is important. With the right timing, solutions, irrigation, and lawn support, homeowners can reduce the effects of summer stress and chinch bug activity.
Life History of Chinch Bugs
The adult chinch bug can spend the winter congregated under trees and shrubs, along the edges of lawns, under hedges, and in flower beds.
As temperatures become warmer in the spring, typically from late May into June, the adults move into the lawn and begin depositing eggs. Once the eggs hatch, the immature chinch bugs begin feeding on turf grass, which can lead to visible lawn damage during hot, dry periods.
What Chinch Bugs Look Like
Chinch bugs are quite small. The adults are approximately 4 mm in length, which can make them difficult to notice at first.
The immature nymphs are bright red in colour when they first hatch. As they mature, they begin to darken from brick red to grey or brown. The immature nymphs have a characteristic white band across their abdomen, which is eventually covered by the enlarging wings as the insects become larger and mature.
How Chinch Bugs Damage Turf Grass
Chinch bugs have piercing mouth parts. They suck the sap from the crown and stems of turf grass plants. As a result, damage usually begins as localized dead patches, especially in sunny or less irrigated sections of the lawn during hot, dry weather.
How to Confirm an Infestation
Use the following method to confirm a suspected chinch bug infestation or have Wright Landscape Services check and apply our summer solution (see below).
- Make a cylinder by cutting out the bottom and the top of a large can (approx. 20 cm in diameter).
- Force the cylinder into the turf.
- Fill the cylinder with water. Any chinch bugs present will soon float to the surface of the water.
Best Timing for Chinch Bug Checks
The best time to start checking for chinch bug infestations is around the second week of July, depending on the weather. This is especially important when conditions have been hot and dry.
Timing will vary from year to year and from one locality to another. At this point in the season, most eggs have hatched, and the initial stages of damage are usually minimal, making it an ideal time to inspect the lawn.
Wright’s Summer Solution for Chinch Bugs
Wright’s summer solution for chinch bugs consists of essential oils, selected plant extracts, and natural fertilizer components. Together, these ingredients increase the health and vigour of your lawn, helping reduce the effects of summer stress and chinch bug activity.
The summer solution also increases soil activity, which promotes natural stress resistance and helps the lawn hold its colour through challenging summer conditions.
Have Wright Landscape Services Check Your Lawn This Summer
If you suspect chinch bug activity, Wright Landscape Services can inspect your lawn and apply our summer solution to help support healthier turf through hot, dry summer conditions.
Contact Wright Landscape Services to schedule a lawn care visit today!
