Common Lawn Pests in Australia (and How to Stop Them)

Your lawn is your pride and joy but it’s also a prime target for pests. These tiny intruders can damage your turf, ruin your lawn’s appearance, and quickly turn a healthy lawn into a patchy, stressed mess. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common lawn pests in Australia, how to spot the signs of pest damage, and most importantly, how to stop them before they take hold.

Pests cause damage by feeding on the grass blades, roots, or crowns, depending on the species. Some create visible brown patches, while others cause more subtle decline. If left untreated, lawn pests can severely weaken turf, reduce drought resistance, and make it more vulnerable to weeds and disease.

To protect your lawn, early identification and timely treatment are key.

Armyworms feed at night and chew through the leaves of your grass. They move in large numbers and can destroy a lawn overnight.

• Signs : Chewed grass blades, brown patches, presence of caterpillars at night

• Best Treatment : Fortune Ultra is a highly effective option, providing knock down control.

These are the larvae of beetles like the African Black Beetle. They live in the soil and feed on grass roots.

• Signs : Spongy grass, die-off in irregular patches, birds or other animals digging

• Best Treatment : Acelepryn (or Acelepryn GR) targets grubs without harming beneficial insects

Webworm hides during the day and feeds at night, similar to armyworms. They cut off grass blades near the crown.

• Signs : Scalped or grazed patches, presence of small moths fluttering at dusk

• Best Treatment : Again, Acelepryn is effective against Webworm

Adult beetles themselves don’t cause major damage, but their larvae (grubs) do.

• Signs : Yellowing patches, roots easily pull up from soil

• Best Treatment : Acelepryn offers both preventive and curative control

These bugs feed on grass stems and crowns. Damage typically starts small but can escalate quickly.

• Signs : Dead patches that expand, hollowed grass stems

• Best Treatment : Systemic insecticides such as Acelepryn can help suppress infestations

These microscopic insects feed on the underside of grass blades, causing silvering and bleaching.

• Signs : Fine webbing, silver patches, signs of drought stress

• Best Treatment : Use a miticide containing Abamectin; water deeply 2–3 times per week to deter them

Early detection is key to stopping pests. Here’s what to look for:

• Irregular yellow or brown patches

• Chewed grass blades

• Birds or ants picking at your lawn

• Spongy or loose turf

• Increased moth or beetle activity at dusk

If you suspect pests, part the grass and look at the soil level. Spotting grubs, larvae, or webbing will confirm the problem.

When it comes to pests, prevention is better than cure. Here’s how to manage them effectively:

Step 1: Apply Preventative Treatment

Use a long-lasting pest control product like Acelepryn in early spring or late summer. It prevents a wide range of lawn pests for months and is safe for beneficial insects.

Step 2: Monitor for Signs

Even after treatment, keep an eye out for pest activity. Look for birds digging or discoloured patches.

Step 3: Spot Treat If Needed

If pests reappear, spot treat with an appropriate follow-up product. Repeat applications may be necessary in high-pressure areas.

Healthy lawns are more resistant. Incorporate these habits:

• Water deeply : Avoid daily shallow watering. Aim for 2–3 deep watering sessions per week.

• Mow regularly : Keep grass at the ideal height for your variety to promote thick growth.

• Fertilise properly : Balanced nutrition helps your lawn recover faster from pest stress.

• Aerate soil : Compacted lawns attract pests. Aerate once a year to improve root health.

Lawn pests are a challenge for every Aussie homeowner, but with the right plan, you can keep them in check. Knowing which pests you’re dealing with, acting early, and using effective products like Acelepryn will protect your lawn through the toughest seasons.

Don’t wait until pests cause major damage. Stay on top of your lawn game year-round with smart prevention, regular lawn care, and quality pest control solutions.