Centipede Pest Guide — Ground Pearls & More
Ground Pearls (Margarodes spp.): The most destructive centipede pest. Tiny scale insects that attach to roots and feed on plant fluids. Causes irregular dead/thin patches that don't respond to fertilizer or watering. Unfortunately, there is NO effective chemical control. Best defense: maintain healthy turf through proper (minimal) fertilization, correct pH, and adequate watering. Mole Crickets: tunnel through soil, severing roots and pushing up soil. Treat with bifenthrin or Dylox in late summer when immatures are active. Spittlebugs: frothy masses on grass stems, feed on sap. Treat with bifenthrin if severe. Armyworms: caterpillars that consume blades rapidly. Treat with bifenthrin at first sign.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are ground pearls?
Ground pearls are small, pearl-like insects that attach to grass roots and feed on plant juices. They are a severe problem in centipede and there is currently no effective chemical control. A healthy lawn is the best defense.
How do I know if I have ground pearls?
Dig up a small area of affected turf and look for tiny, round, pinkish-white or gold pearl-like objects attached to roots. Damage appears as irregular yellowing and thinning that does not respond to fertilizer or water.
Can I treat ground pearls?
Unfortunately, no insecticide is effective against ground pearls once they form their protective pearl-like cyst. The best approach is to maintain lawn health to help centipede tolerate the infestation.
What other pests affect centipede?
Nematodes, spittlebugs, and mole crickets can also damage centipede. Nematodes are microscopic worms that attack roots. Mole crickets tunnel through soil and damage roots. Regular monitoring helps catch problems early.
Related Guides
Get a free lawn plan for your yard
Completely free. No credit card required.