🐛 Armyworms in Kansas? What KC Homeowners Should Know (and How to Protect Your Lawn)

As we move into the heart of summer in Kansas City, lawns are already under pressure from heat, drought, and inconsistent rainfall. But now there's a new potential threat on the horizon: fall armyworms.

These fast-moving pests were recently reported in Wichita, and while there’s no confirmed outbreak in KC yet, it's important for homeowners to stay alert. At Turf Geeks, we’re committed to keeping you informed—not alarmed—about everything affecting your lawn.

Let’s break down what armyworms are, how to spot them, and the best way to protect your turf.

🐛 What Are Armyworms?

Armyworms are small, striped caterpillars that travel in large groups (hence the name "army") and can cause severe turf damage in just days. They typically feed during the evening or early morning and hide in the thatch or soil during the heat of the day.

Their favorite meals? Cool-season grasses like fescue and bluegrass—the most common lawn types in Kansas City.

📍 Where Are Armyworms Now?

According to KAKE News and K-State Research & Extension, fall armyworms have already been spotted in Wichita. That’s a strong indicator we could see them in KC in the coming weeks, especially if weather patterns align.

But again—this isn’t a panic alert. We’re simply staying ahead of the trend, so you can, too.

🔍 How to Spot Armyworm Damage

Armyworm infestations often go unnoticed until it’s too late. Here’s what to watch for:

• ⚠️ Sudden brown patches or thinning grass

• ⚠️ Chewed, ragged grass blades

• ⚠️ Clusters of birds feeding aggressively in one spot

• ⚠️ Small green to brown striped caterpillars, especially early in the day or late evening

Still unsure? Try the soap flush test: mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap into 1 quart of water and pour over a suspected patch. If armyworms are present, they’ll rise to the surface quickly.

🛡️ Turf Geek Insect Guard: 30 Days of Protection

If you want to stay ahead of potential infestations, we now offer Turf Geek Insect Guard—a preventative surface insecticide treatment that gives your lawn 30 days of defense against armyworms, chinch bugs, sod webworms, and more.

It's one of the smartest steps you can take to protect your turf before signs of damage appear.

✂️ Mowing & Watering Tips for Summer Stress

Mowing Best Practices:

• Keep blades sharp

• Raise mowing height to reduce stress

  
  

Watering Tips:

• Water early morning (4–8 AM) only

• Apply about 1 inch per week total, including rainfall

• Avoid daily light watering—deep soaking is better for root health

💬 Final Thoughts from Turf Geeks

We’re not predicting a full-blown armyworm invasion—but we’re staying informed and ready, and we want you to be, too. At Turf Geeks, we’re all about Quality, Passion, and Support, and part of that is keeping you updated on trends we’re watching in the field.

If you ever have questions about your lawn’s health, don’t hesitate to reach out.

📞 Call us anytime at 816-459-0253 or message us online.✅ And don’t forget: our $50 Referral Program is a great way to help a friend and earn some green of your own.

Turf Geeks – Experience the Difference.