September Pest Watch: What to Watch for in Texas Landscapes

September can feel like a transition month in Texas, but don’t put the scouting tools away yet. Warm temperatures can keep many landscape and nursery pests active, while plants may be stressed from a long, hot summer. A quick walk-through now can help you catch pest problems before they become expensive or difficult to manage.

Keep an Eye Out for Scale
Scale insects should remain on your September scouting list, especially on crape myrtles, hollies, shrubs, and other woody ornamentals. Look closely at stems, branches, and the undersides of leaves. Signs such as honeydew, sooty mold, yellowing leaves, or declining plant vigor can indicate a scale problem. If you find scale, determine whether it is alive before deciding on a treatment.
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Check New Growth for Aphids, Whiteflies, and Thrips
Tender new growth and flowering plants can continue to attract aphids, whiteflies, and thrips. Look at growing tips and the undersides of leaves for insects, distorted foliage, sticky honeydew, or discoloration. For thrips, check flowers and young foliage for scarring or distorted growth. Early detection gives you more management options.

Don’t Forget Spider Mites
Hot, dry conditions can favor spider mites, particularly on plants already experiencing water or heat stress. Look for tiny yellow or white spots, bronzing, leaf drop, or fine webbing. If you suspect mites, tap or shake affected foliage over a white sheet of paper and look for moving specks. Confirm the pest before treating, beneficial mites and insects may be helping keep populations under control.

Scout Turf for Fall Armyworms
September is an important time to check lawns and turf for fall armyworms. Look for areas of thinning or chewed grass and inspect the turf closely for caterpillars. Because armyworm populations can build quickly, regular scouting can help prevent widespread damage.

Use IPM Before Reaching for the Sprayer
The most important September pest-management tool is scouting. Walk the property regularly, identify the pest before treating, and determine whether the population is actually causing unacceptable damage. Consider beneficial insects, cultural practices, and other nonchemical options before selecting an insecticide. September is not the time to stop scouting. A few minutes spent checking plants each week can help green-industry professionals catch pest problems early, protect plant quality, and avoid unnecessary treatments as Texas landscapes transition into fall.

Rafia Khan, Ph. D.
Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist
Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center,
Overton, TX.

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