Controlling the Gypsy Moth with Inground Sprinkler Systems

Fall is coming and with it arrives the unique challenges of maintaining a yard in the autumn. European gypsy moths are just one of these fall foes that will begin to appear in your lawn. Fortunately, getting rid of them just takes some patient diligence, attention, and proper irrigation. With a couple of tricks from the experts at Nutri-Lawn Burlington inground sprinkler systems, you'll have your lawn back in order.

What is the gypsy moth?
The gypsy moth first came to North America in 1869, and to Burlington in 1981. Because it is non-native, there have been issues in the past with getting rid of this pesky creature. Without natural predators in the area, the gypsy moth population in Burlington experienced a rapid growth. With manual methods and proper irrigation, homeowners have a chance at ridding their lawns of these damaging insects.

You'll know that you have gypsy moths if, despite your best efforts, the leaves on your trees and shrubs are dying. You'll notice that your trees are becoming more susceptible to disease and other predatory insects. Once your trees and shrubs have been weakened, it is much easier for foes to continue compromising its health. That's why you need to create a strong root system with your inground irrigation system and stop European gypsy moths before they're given enough freedom to cause significant destruction.

Using your Burlington inground irrigation for prevention
As mentioned, the first step is to strengthen your plant root systems. It may sound unnecessary, but watering your trees and shrubs with your inground sprinkler systems is a critical step in creating a healthy property. Most homeowners neglect to water their trees, and focus instead on smaller flowering plants and the grass.

Once you've fed your trees, keep the water in the soil by surrounding the base of each tree with mulch. Mulch will also protect the roots from damage. Damaged roots will decrease your tree's defenses against gypsy moths, so make sure to avoid root harm.

When do European gypsy moths strike?
Eggs will begin to appear on your tree trunks in early September, and will continue to mature through winter until late April. Once you see eggs appearing on your trees (they will be in large masses), vacuum them up or hose them down. If they are small enough masses, or if you want to be extra careful, scrap the eggs into a large bucket of warm soapy water. Allow these to sit in the bucket for a couple of days before you get rid of them to ensure they are dead.

Eliminating the caterpillars
In the best case scenario, you will have gotten rid of the gypsy moths while they are still in the egg phase. In case this hasn't happened, it's time to deal with the caterpillars. A great, natural way to do this is to attract birds to your lawn. Have your inground irrigation set up properly to maintain a fertile lawn, install bird feeders and bird houses, and keep your pets away from nests. Birds will feed on the caterpillars and do the work for you!

If this isn't working, or if you are having trouble attracting birds, you can also wrap your tree trunks in sticky paper. Once caterpillars stick to the surface of the tree, you can easily dispose of them. Another option is to wrap burlap around the trunk. Tie it around the center, and let the top half flop down over the bottom. This creates a hiding place for caterpillars to enter, after which you can remove these pesky foes.

Don't let your best summertime efforts go to waste when gypsy moths arrive. Squash those eggs, trap the caterpillars, and call to receive your complimentary quote on the best Nutri-Lawn Burlington inground sprinkler systems today!