Chinch bugs are some of the most damaging pests for homeowners and turfgrass professionals alike. These tiny little black insects can be hard to see with the naked eye, but given the right amount of time, they can easily devastate entire St. Augustine lawns. A major symptom of chinch bugs is the yellowing in irregular shapes of turfgrass. Damage symptoms often mimic those of drought. Consider conducting a soap flush test for proper identification.

Chinch Bug Prevention
When to Apply:
June or Early JulyWhat to Apply:
Products that contain the active ingredients Trichlorfon, Bifenthrin, Chlorantraniliprole and Carbaryl. Bifenthrin is the most recommended for homeowner usage.
Chinch Bug Treatment
When to Apply:
July, August or SeptemberWhat to Apply:
Products that contain the active ingredients Trichlorfon, Bifenthrin and Carbaryl. Bifenthrin is the most recommended for homeowner usage.
Recommended Products
Spectracide Triazicide
- Broad spectrum insect control that kills over 260 insects on contact
- Easily attaches to the end of your garden hose
- Gamma-Cyhalothrin 0.08%
- One bottle covers 2,500 sq. ft. of lawn
Dylox 6.2 Granular Insecticide
- Offers curative treatment and prevention properties for chinch bugs
- Trichlorfon 6.2%
- Requires a broadcast or drop spreader for application
- A 30 lb. bag covers 10,000 sq. ft. for grub worms
Bifen L/P Insecticide Granules
- Offers curative treatment and prevention properties for chinch bugs
- Bifenthrin 0.2%
- Most recommended for chinch bugs
- Requires a broadcast or drop spreader for application
- 25 lbs. covers between 5,000–17,000 sq. ft.
Bifen XTS
- Offers curative treatment and prevention properties for chinch bugs
- Bifenthrin 25.1%
- Most recommended for chinch bugs
- Requires tank mixing
- One quart covers between 106,000–458,000 sq. ft. for chinch bugs
Merit Imidacloprid .5G Granular Insecticide
- Offers prevention for chinch bugs
- Imidacloprid 0.5%
- Requires a broadcast or drop spreader for application
- 30 lbs. covers between 16,000–21,000 sq. ft.
Scotts GrubEx
- Offers curative treatment for chinch bugs
- Chlorantraniliprole 0.08%
- Requires a broadcast or drop spreader for application
- 14.35 lbs. covers up to 5,000 sq. ft.
