While living in Maryland is great for those who love enjoying all four seasons, it can present challenges when it comes to pests. From destructive insects to nuisance wildlife, Maryland homeowners and property owners face various challenges in protecting their outdoor spaces. What are some of the most common landscaping pests in Maryland?
Japanese Beetles
Japanese beetles are voracious eaters that can destroy plants rapidly. They often target roses, fruit trees, and ornamental shrubs. There are a variety of methods that can be used to get rid of Japanese beetles, and working with JFC Grounds Maintenance is one way to identify signs of damage early. Additionally, planting resistant species and installing physical barriers like nets can help reduce beetle damage.
Eastern Tent Caterpillars
Eastern tent caterpillars are known for making small silk tents in tree branches. While they might look harmless, they can cause significant damage to deciduous trees. It’s a good idea to prune and destroy tent caterpillar nests over the winter months to prevent infestations. You can also prune tents on wet days, as the caterpillars are more likely to be inside of them.
White Grubs
White grubs are the larvae of beetles like Japanese beetles and June beetles, and they can do serious damage to your lawn. They feed on grassroots, which leads to brown patches and weak turf. Regularly aerating and dethatching lawns can discourage grub infestations. Additionally, working with a professional grounds maintenance company can limit the chances of a grub infestation that harms your turf.
Armyworms
While they are not as common in Maryland as they are in Virginia, armyworms are a growing problem for landscaping. Armyworms are caterpillars that can quickly devour grass blades, leading to large brown patches in lawns. Always make sure that your lawn is mowed to the proper height and avoid over-fertilization, as lush grass can attract armyworms.
Hire the Professionals for Your Landscape Maintenance Needs
Ready to take better care of your lawn or commercial landscape? Give JFC Grounds Maintenance a call at (410) 655-2887.