TechNotes Nov. 9 - Lady Beetles, Rhizoctonia, Mowing & Soil Temps

LADY BEETLES INVADE. Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle is invading homes throughout many parts of the United States. This beetle is present in large numbers on landscape plants. The Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle is a helpful predator during the year because of its predation on aphids and other pests and thus found in large numbers on landscape plants. However, during this time of the year many homeowners look for ways to control this insect. The lady beetles vary in different shades of yellow, orange or red, either with or without black spots on the wing covers.

What triggers these beetles to begin invading homes (looking for a place to overwinter) is usually the passing of a cold front that produces heavy rain followed by clearing skies and a frost. Generally, this weather pattern is followed by a warming trend, which triggers these beetles to seek shelter.

Weatherproofing your home by sealing cracks around windows and installing tight fitting door sweeps. If heavy infestations get into the home vacuuming and then sealing and disposing the bag is an effective means of removing the beetles. Exterior insecticide application to the house in from middle of October to early November may also help keep the Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle from infesting your home.

RHIZOCTONIA ON ZOYSIA. Zoysiagrass patch can occur this time of the year. The proper name or commonly used name is Rhizoctonia large patch of zoysiagrass. The pathogen, Rhizoctonia spp., can infect the leaves and sheaths of zoysiagrass until the turf goes dormant. Patches appear initially small (a few inches in diameter) that can rapidly increase in size. The outer edges of the patches often appear to have a tinge of orange. Although the zoysiagrass often recovers from this disease, weeds often invade these weakened areas. Fungicides are available for the control of this disease.

PROPER MOWING PRACTICES. The proper mowing practices for both cool and warm season turfgrasses is critical at this time of the year. On cool season turfgrasses, mowing should be continued until the turf stops growing, or no more clippings occur. The most common mistake made by homeowners in mowing is to scalp the turf in the last mowing. This should be avoided. Mow at the same height as previous mowings.

On warm season turfgrasses, raise the height of cut slightly. This will provide some winter time protection to the growing point.

SOIL TEMPERATURES.