How to remove Couch Mites in your lawn

Damage from Couch Mites is usually most severe in mid-spring to late summer, during hot, dry conditions.

Eventually, the infested turf becomes thin, with bare spots, and weeds appear.

Stunted growing points often die in winter, and the damaged stems and stolons do not produce new shoots. 

Some lawn varieties don’t develop witches’ brooms, so carefully peel back the leaf sheaths to check for stem damage in areas of Couch that are thinned or appear stressed.

Garden hygiene is essential for minimising the spread of pests such as Couch Mites.

Closely mow any affected areas to remove damaged grass. Clean and wash down your mower, and collect and discard the lawn clippings so the Couch Mites can’t relocate to nearby turf.

After mowing, apply a suitable insecticide. Be aware that repeat applications may be necessary to ensure you cover multiple generations of Couch Mites.

Chemical control of Couch Mites

When looking for products to control Couch Mite ensure they contain the active ingredients abamectin, diafenthiuron, clofentezine or beta-cyfluthrin.

To prevent Couch Mites from developing resistance, after three applications switch to another type of miticide containing a different active ingredient.

Be aware that most miticides are non-discriminatory and will also wipe out beneficial insects.

Always read the safety directions and instructions on the product label before use. 

Natural control of Couch Mites

Pyrethrin sprays offer an organic means of tackling Couch Mites by disrupting their nervous system.

Neem Oil extract applied as a foliar spray is also effective.

Used properly it is safe for humans and does not target beneficial insects such as bees, butterflies and ladybugs.

Thumper 1L

Indigo Malice Duo 1L

A spray kit is a fast and effective way to apply all your liquid lawn care products; an easy to use option is the Solo 7L Manual Sprayer that comes with a quality pressure sprayer. Spray indicators such as Blazon allow you to clearly identify where you have applied the spray. myhomeTURF also recommends a surfactant such as Wetter 600 to increase the activity and efficiency of liquid chemicals.

A healthy lawn is better equipped to quickly recover from mild pest infestations. Help your lawn recover by watering and fertilising appropriately. Avoid using too much nitrogen fertiliser and don’t cause stress to your lawn by mowing it too short.

Encouraging beneficial insects, such as Parasitic Wasps, Flies and Predatory Mites, can help keep Couch Mites under control. 

Always read the safety directions and instructions on the product label before use.