If your grass is turning brown or patchy—even with regular watering—it could be more than summer heat. Homeowners across Indianapolis and surrounding areas often confuse lawn insect damage with simple drought stress. But knowing the difference can save your lawn and your wallet.
At Blue Duck Pest Control, we help Indiana families figure out what’s really going on beneath the grass—whether it’s grubs, chinch bugs, or environmental stress. Here’s how to tell them apart and what to do next.
Signs of Lawn Insect Damage to Watch For
Lawn insect damage can appear suddenly and worsen quickly if not addressed. If pests are the cause, you’ll likely notice:
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Patchy, irregular brown areas
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Grass that lifts easily from the soil (especially with grub damage)
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Increased bird or animal activity digging at your lawn
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Green halos around dying patches (common with chinch bugs)
Unlike drought, insect damage often persists despite watering.
Is It Grubs, Chinch Bugs, or Just Drought?
These are three of the most common culprits when your grass looks unhealthy in late summer:
Grubs
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White, C-shaped larvae that feed on roots
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Cause spongy turf that peels up easily
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Often attract moles, raccoons, or birds
Chinch Bugs
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Small, black insects that suck grass juices
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Thrive in hot, sunny areas
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Create yellow patches with surrounding green halos
Drought Stress
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Even, widespread browning
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Soil feels hard and dry
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Grass rebounds after watering
Misdiagnosing grub or chinch bug damage as drought can delay real treatment.
How to Prevent Lawn Pests in Central Indiana
Preventing lawn insect damage begins with year-round lawn care practices. Try these tips:
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Keep your lawn healthy with deep, infrequent watering
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Mow at the right height for your grass type
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Aerate compacted soil to promote strong roots
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Avoid over-fertilizing, which can attract pests
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Remove thatch buildup where insects hide
A thick, healthy lawn is your best defense against pests and drought.
When to Call for Professional Lawn Insect Treatment
Sometimes damage is too advanced for DIY solutions. If you’re not sure what’s damaging your yard—or if pests keep coming back—it’s time to call in the pros.
At Blue Duck Pest Control, we offer:
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Accurate identification of lawn pests
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Eco-friendly treatments safe for kids and pets
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Customized plans for Indiana soil and climate
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Preventative care to avoid future infestations
Whether you’re dealing with chinch bugs or grubs, our team is trained to spot it fast and treat it right.
Trust Blue Duck with Your Lawn’s Health
We proudly serve homeowners across Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville, and Greenwood. With family-safe products, expert knowledge, and honest service, we’ll help you restore your lawn and keep it that way.