Brown Patches In Your Yard? It Could Be Winter Mites

Does your lawn look yellow and withered? Are there unsightly brown patches that draw attention away from the rest of the yard? Then you might have mites. Clover mites are a common type of lawn destroying mite in Colorado and as the temperatures drop they become more active.

What Are Mites?

Clover mites are a type of spider mite and range in color from reddish brown to dark green. They are tiny, no bigger than the head of a needle. Females lay their eggs on blades of grass in the early spring and they hatch in late fall when temperatures cool off. Dry falls and winters can lead to larger infestations. They feed on the blades through the winter, sucking nutrients away from the plant. Results don’t become apparent until the grass comes out of dormancy in the spring.

How To Tell If You Have Mites

Mites are the number one cause of lawn damage in Colorado and can cause extensive damage if an infestation is left untreated. The first telltale signs of an infestation will appear in spring as the grass they fed on all winter starts to yellow, wither, and eventually die, leaving patches of exposed dirt. Mites can also invade your house during the fall months but don’t worry, they don’t bite or transmit diseases.

How To Prevent Them

Water, water, water. Mites can’t stand moisture and thrive during dry falls and winters. Watering your yard regularly will keep them out and prevent them from destroying your grass. It is ideal to water your grass when temperatures reach 40 degrees. Do not water your grass in freezing temperatures. Pay special attention to spots in your yard that receive the most direct sun as these spots will dry up first and will be the most vulnerable to a mite infestation.

Don’t let your lawn be a buffet this winter. If you suspect your yard could be infested with mites call and make an appointment with Lawn Doctor. Our state-of-the-art treatment process can rid you of these pests and bring your yard back to life.