Chinch Bug (2026)
Warm-season lawns (St. Augustine, zoysia)
Quick answer: Chinch Bug attacks warm-season lawns (st. augustine, zoysia). Start with the organic/IPM steps below; use the chemical option only if damage escalates, and always follow the product label. Avoid excess thatch and nitrogen; overseed.
Your Chinch Bug IPM card
Select your state to see whether this pest is common there, then print.
Chinch Bug in Florida: Listed among the most-reported pests in your state — watch for it.
Chinch Bug
Targets
Warm-season lawns (St. Augustine, zoysia)
Signs
Irregular yellow patches that wilt; small black-and-white bugs.
Organic / IPM first
Reduce thatch; beneficial nematodes; proper watering.
Chemical option (follow label)
Insecticidal soap or pyrethroid spot treatment.
Prevention
Avoid excess thatch and nitrogen; overseed.
Chinch Bug by host plant
Host-specific signs and control — see the full pest × host reference.
More pests
Treatments follow integrated pest management (IPM): identify first, least-toxic fix second. Product specifics and labels vary by state — confirm with your county extension.