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April 23, 2018

How to Detect Annual Bluegrass Weevil Activity

How to Detect Annual Bluegrass Weevil Activity

The north is slowly coming out of winter.  Along the eastern states, the annual bluegrass weevil is starting to move.

Annual Bluegrass Weevil

In mid spring, the overwintering adults can be found moving across the turf surface from protected areas toward greens.  The feeding from adults is very minor and pretty much goes undetected.  Once feeding begins, the females begin to lay eggs in the sheaths of the turf plants. When the eggs hatch the larva feed down through the stem and crown of the plant, causing the stems to be hollow.

bluegrass-weevil

The hollowed-out stems can be used as a tool to determine if you have ABW living and causing damage on your course.  Depending on the location, there can be 2-3 generations per year. 

See results from an annual bluegrass weevil management taken by GCSAA in 2017.  It is best to check with your local university extension service or university entomologist to get the best recommendation for your area.

Quali-Pro Team

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