Pest Control

Protect your lawn – naturally. At Fox Mowing & Gardening, we believe in protecting your lawn using safe, effective, and environmentally responsible methods. Our organic pest control solutions are designed specifically for South Australian conditions, offering peace of mind for families, pets, and local ecosystems.

Whether your lawn is under attack from insects or underground pests, our trained specialists can identify and treat the issue using non-toxic, soil-safe treatments that get results – without the harsh chemicals.

Lawn Pest Control

Lawns in South Australia can become a breeding ground for pests, especially during warmer months when moisture levels and soil temperatures rise. Left untreated, these pests can destroy root systems, eat away at grass blades, and leave behind unsightly damage.

Our organic pest control treatments are:

• Safe for children and pets
• Friendly to beneficial insects and microbes
• Designed to nourish your lawn while eliminating pests

Army Worm

Army worms are caterpillar pests that feed aggressively on lawns, often stripping grass overnight in large patches. They thrive in warm, humid conditions and can spread rapidly if not treated.

Our approach: We apply organic biological treatments that target army worms without harming your lawn or the environment. We also monitor for moth activity to prevent re-infestation.

Lawn Grubs

Lawn grubs (including the larvae of beetles) live beneath the surface and feed on grassroots, leading to spongy turf, brown patches, and thinning lawn.

Our approach: We use certified organic soil drenches that naturally disrupt the grubs’ life cycle. Combined with lawn aeration and balanced watering, we help restore strong, healthy root systems.

Nematodes (Root Knot)

Nematodes are microscopic worms that invade plant roots, creating knots that disrupt water and nutrient absorption. This can leave your lawn weak, stunted, and prone to other diseases.

Our approach: We treat root knot nematodes with natural compost teas, microbial sprays, and organic matter that rebalances the soil and encourages beneficial organisms to thrive.

The Billbug

Billbug larvae bore into grass stems and roots, causing yellow patches and weakened turf that can be mistaken for drought damage.

Our approach: We identify billbug damage early and use natural pest deterrents that target larvae and adults, supported by healthy mowing and watering practices to strengthen the lawn’s defences.

Why Go Organic with Fox Mowing & Gardening South Australia?

• Safe and non-toxic pest solutions
• Locally tailored to SA’s climate and soil types
• Pet- and child-safe treatments
• Friendly to bees and beneficial insects
• Expert diagnosis and treatment plans

Give your lawn a natural defence.

Reach out to Fox Mowing & Gardening South Australia for reliable, organic lawn pest control – and enjoy a healthier lawn from the soil up.

Organic Pest Control

If you’re a homeowner or gardener in South Australia, you’ve probably noticed how quickly pests can take over—especially during the warmer months. While chemical sprays might seem like the quickest fix, more people are now looking for organic pest control methods that are safer for families, pets, and the environment.

What Is Organic Pest Control?

Simply put, organic pest control means using natural solutions to deal with unwanted insects and animals. These methods avoid harsh chemicals and focus on eco-friendly alternatives that work in harmony with nature. It’s a smarter, long-term approach that doesn’t sacrifice the health of your garden—or the planet.

Why Go Organic?

In South Australia, we’re lucky to have a wide variety of native plants and animals. But that also means we need to be careful with what we put in our soil and gardens. Chemical pesticides can harm beneficial insects, pollute waterways, and even affect our pets.

Here’s why organic pest control is a great option:

• It’s non-toxic and safe for kids and pets.
• It encourages healthier soil and long-term plant growth.
• It protects bees, butterflies, and other helpful insects.
• It’s better for the environment, especially in sensitive ecosystems.

Tried-and-Tested Organic Methods for South Australian Gardens

1. Neem Oil – A natural oil that works well against common garden pests like aphids, mites, and whiteflies. It’s easy to apply and safe for most beneficial insects if used at the right time.
2. Companion Planting – Placing certain plants next to each other (like basil with tomatoes or marigolds around veggies) can naturally keep pests at bay.
3. Encouraging Natural Predators – Let nature do the work. Birds, ladybirds, and lacewings are fantastic allies in controlling unwanted bugs.
4. DIY Sprays – A simple garlic or chilli spray can deter pests like ants and beetles. It’s cost-effective and easy to make at home.
5. Physical Barriers – Things like netting, mesh, or copper tape around your plants can prevent access without any need for sprays.

Local Knowledge Matters

South Australia’s dry climate and diverse regions—from the Adelaide Plains to the Hills—create different pest challenges. Citrus gall wasp, scale insects, and earwigs are just a few of the usual suspects. Organic pest control can be especially helpful in these conditions, as it helps retain soil health and doesn’t contribute to chemical build-up in our waterways.

Plus, with more community gardens and councils promoting sustainable practices, going organic is easier than ever. You’ll often find local workshops, gardening clubs, and eco-focused stores offering tips and supplies.

Need a Hand?

Whether you’re new to gardening or dealing with a persistent pest problem, there are local professionals in South Australia who specialise in organic pest control. They can tailor a solution to suit your garden, property size, and the types of pests you’re dealing with.

Army Worm

If your lawn or crops have suddenly developed dry patches or chewed leaves seemingly overnight, you might be dealing with an armyworm infestation. These destructive pests can cause serious damage in a short amount of time—especially in South Australia’s warm seasons.

What Are Armyworms?

Armyworms are the caterpillar stage of a type of moth. Despite their name, they’re not worms at all—but their behaviour explains the nickname. These pests move in large numbers, “marching” across lawns, ovals, and farmland in search of food. In South Australia, they’re most commonly spotted from late summer through autumn, particularly after warm, humid weather or rain.

How to Identify Them

Armyworms can be tricky to spot at first. They are small and green-brown as juveniles, growing darker with stripes as they mature. You’re more likely to notice the damage before you see the pests themselves.

Signs of an armyworm infestation:

• Bare patches in lawn that appear almost overnight
• Grass or crops chewed down to the base
• Increased bird activity (birds love to eat them!)
• Caterpillars visible in early morning or evening

Where They’re a Problem in South Australia

These pests are common in suburban backyards, sports ovals, pastures, and grain crops across the state. From Adelaide suburbs to the Barossa Valley and Riverland, armyworms thrive in warm, damp conditions, especially following rainfall or irrigation.

They’re particularly damaging to:

• Kikuyu and couch lawns
• Cereal crops like wheat and barley
• Vegetable gardens
• Ornamental turf in parks and schools

What to Do About Them

Catching armyworms early is key. They can devastate a lawn or paddock within days. Here’s how to act quickly—without relying heavily on harsh chemicals.

1. Inspect Regularly
   Check lawns in the early morning or late evening. Look closely at the base of the grass and beneath thatch for caterpillars.
2. Use Organic Treatments
   There are several low-impact solutions available in South Australia:
   • Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt): A naturally occurring bacteria that targets caterpillars but is safe for pets, people, and beneficial insects.
   • Neem Oil: Effective against younger armyworms and disrupts their growth cycle.
   • Diatomaceous Earth: A fine powder that damages soft-bodied pests without harming the environment.
3. Water Deeply but Less Often
   Overwatering can attract armyworms. Instead, water less frequently but deeply to make your lawn less inviting to pests.
4. Call in the Experts
   For widespread infestations, especially on larger properties, it’s best to contact a pest control professional in South Australia who understands the local climate and can offer organic or low-toxicity treatment options.
   Prevention Tips
   • Keep lawns healthy and well-aerated—thick, strong turf is more resistant to damage.
   • Avoid over-fertilising in late summer, which can attract pests.
   • Regular mowing and garden maintenance can help you spot problems early

Final Thought

Armyworms might be small, but they’re incredibly destructive. With early detection and a natural approach, you can keep them from overrunning your garden or lawn. If you’re unsure what you’re dealing with, don’t wait—get in touch with a local pest control expert or lawn care service familiar with South Australian conditions.

Grubs

If your once-green lawn is suddenly looking patchy, yellow, or easy to pull up, there’s a good chance grubs are to blame. These sneaky underground pests are a common problem across South Australia, especially during the warmer months—and they can do serious damage before you even notice they’re there.

What Are Lawn Grubs?

“Lawn grubs” is a general term used to describe the larvae of various beetles, including African Black Beetles, Argentinian Scarabs, and Christmas Beetles. These C-shaped, white-bodied grubs live just below the grubssurface of your lawn, where they feed on the roots of the grass. Grubs are most active in spring and summer, but the signs of their damage can carry on well into autumn.

How to Tell if You Have Grubs

Grubs can be tricky to spot because they live underground, but there are a few tell-tale signs to watch for:

• Spongy or soft areas in your lawn
• Yellow or brown patches that spread
• Grass that pulls up easily, almost like a carpet
• Increased bird, wasp, or rodent activity, as they feed on the grubs

If you suspect grub damage, try lifting a section of turf. If you find more than 5–10 grubs in a square foot of soil, it’s likely an infestation.

Why They’re a Problem in South Australia

South Australia’s warm climate and frequent irrigation make our lawns an ideal breeding ground for these pests. Areas like Adelaide, the Barossa, and even coastal suburbs can experience severe grub activity during the peak growing season.

Grubs not only damage your lawn, but they also leave it vulnerable to heat stress, weed invasion, and fungal diseases.

Organic and Eco-Friendly Ways to Treat Grubs

If you’re dealing with grubs in your garden or lawn, don’t panic. There are several natural and safe methods that work well in South Australian conditions:

• Neem Oil – A natural insecticide that disrupts the grub’s life cycle without harming beneficial insects. Apply it as a soil drench for best results.
• Beneficial Nematodes – These microscopic worms are a fantastic, chemical-free solution. They enter the grub’s body and release bacteria that kill it—completely harmless to humans, pets, and plants.
• Lawn Aeration and Watering – Keeping your lawn healthy makes it more resistant to grub damage. Aerate compacted soil, water deeply but less frequently, and mow at the right height for your turf type.
• Remove Adult Beetles – If you spot beetles in late spring or early summer, handpick them from plants or attract them to light traps to reduce egg-laying in your lawn.

Prevention Tips

• Avoid over-fertilising in summer, as lush lawns attract adult beetles.
• Monitor soil moisture—overly moist lawns can encourage egg-laying.
• Inspect turf regularly during warmer months.
• Limit night lighting in the garden, which attracts beetles that lay eggs.

When to Call a Local Expert

If the infestation is widespread or keeps returning season after season, it’s a good idea to speak with a South Australian lawn care or pest control specialist. Many now offer grub treatments that are safe for children, pets, and the environment.

Nematodes (Root Knot)

Root-Knot Nematodes: A Hidden Threat

Beneath the surface of many South Australian gardens lies an often-overlooked issue: root-knot nematodes. These microscopic roundworms might be invisible to the naked eye, but the damage they cause can be frustratingly obvious—especially when healthy-looking plants suddenly start to decline without warning.

What Are They?

Root-knot nematodes live in the soil and feed on plant roots, creating small, swollen lumps or “galls.” These galls interfere with the plant’s ability to take up water and nutrients, leading to slow growth and poor health. Although they’re not unique to South Australia, our climate—particularly the hot, dry summers and sandy soils—can create the perfect conditions for them to multiply.

Spotting the Signs

It’s easy to mistake nematode damage for other issues like nutrient deficiency or inconsistent watering. Still, there are a few signs that suggest they’re the culprit:

• Leaves turn yellow or wilt, even when the soil is moist
• Plants look stunted and produce fewer fruits or flowers
• Growth is uneven across garden beds
• Roots have noticeable knots or lumps when dug up

Vegetables such as tomatoes, beans, carrots, cucumbers, and capsicums are particularly vulnerable, but ornamental plants and flowers aren’t immune either.

How Do They Spread?

These pests spread through contaminated soil, compost, and even on garden tools or transplanted seedlings. Once they’ve established themselves in a garden bed, they’re notoriously difficult to eliminate. In warmer regions of South Australia, they can be active throughout much of the year, making prevention and long-term management especially important.

Keeping Them Under Control—Naturally

Many South Australian gardeners prefer to take an organic, soil-friendly approach when dealing with root-knot nematodes. Here are a few common strategies that have proven effective:

1. Crop Rotation – Rotating crops each season helps interrupt the nematodes’ life cycle. Growing resistant or non-host plants in between susceptible ones gives the soil a much-needed break.
2. Solarising the Soil – In summer, laying clear plastic sheeting over moist soil for a few weeks can help kill off nematodes by raising the soil temperature to levels they can’t survive.
3. Improving Soil Health – Regularly adding compost or aged manure boosts beneficial microbes that help suppress nematode populations. Healthy, diverse soil life can naturally reduce their impact.
4. Companion and Cover Crops – Marigolds, in particular, are known to reduce nematode numbers thanks to compounds they release from their roots. Some mustard varieties also act as biofumigants when dug back into the soil.
5. Choosing Resistant Varieties – Some vegetable and plant varieties are bred to tolerate or resist nematode attacks. Planting these can make a big difference, especially in garden beds where nematodes have been a problem before.
6. Keeping Things Clean – Always clean your gardening tools and avoid moving soil from one area to another if nematodes are suspected. It’s a simple habit that can help prevent further spread.

Local Context Matters

Different parts of South Australia face varying levels of risk, depending on soil type and garden conditions. Coastal regions and sandy soils tend to see more activity, but poor drainage or stressed plants can make any area vulnerable. That’s why a strong focus on soil health and biodiversity is often the best long-term approach—healthy soil means healthier plants that can better tolerate minor nematode presence.

Lawn Pest Control

In South Australia, where dry summers and mild winters shape the way we garden, maintaining a healthy, green lawn can sometimes feel like a battle—especially when pests get involved. Whether it’s patches appearing overnight or a general decline in lawn health, pests might be the hidden cause. The good news? With the right approach, you can control lawn pests without relying on harsh chemicals.

Common Lawn Pests in South Australia

Several types of pests are known to cause problems in our local conditions. Some live underground, feeding on roots, while others chew through blades of grass or lay eggs in the soil. Here’s a look at the most common offenders:

• Lawn Grubs (beetle larvae) – These white, curled-up grubs chew on grassroots, leading to brown patches and turf that lifts easily.
• Armyworms – Known for their rapid spread, they can strip large areas of lawn almost overnight, especially after rain or humid weather.
• Root-Knot Nematodes – Microscopic pests that damage roots, affecting the plant’s ability to take up nutrients and water.
• Sod Webworms – These feed on grass blades and often leave behind small patches of dead or thinning lawn.
• Black Beetles – Active during the warmer months, they lay eggs in the soil and their larvae (grubs) cause major root damage.

Signs Your Lawn Might Be Under Attack

Lawn pests often go unnoticed until damage becomes visible. Keep an eye out for:

• Yellowing or browning patches that spread
• Grass that feels soft or spongy underfoot
• Turf that lifts easily with minimal effort
• Birds or animals scratching at the lawn more than usual (they may be feeding on grubs)
• Chewed or ragged-looking grass blades

Early detection is key. By catching the signs early, you can prevent widespread damage and avoid the need for aggressive intervention.

Natural and Sustainable Pest Control Options

With more South Australians turning to eco-friendly gardening practices, there are several effective ways to manage lawn pests without harming the environment or local wildlife:

• Improve Soil Health – A strong, healthy lawn is less susceptible to pest damage. Aerate the soil regularly, avoid overwatering, and apply organic compost or seaweed-based treatments to strengthen grassroots.
• Use Beneficial Nematodes – These natural predators hunt down lawn grubs and other soil pests without affecting your pets, children, or garden ecosystem.
• Encourage Natural Predators – Birds, predatory insects, and frogs can help keep pest numbers down. Consider native plants and a birdbath to make your garden more inviting to these allies.
• Try Organic Sprays – Neem oil and garlic-based sprays are effective against surface-feeding insects like armyworms and caterpillars. Apply early in the morning or late afternoon for best results.
• Monitor Regularly – Inspect your lawn every couple of weeks, especially during peak pest seasons (spring and summer). Early action is always easier than fixing extensive damage.

Seasonal Considerations

In South Australia, pests tend to be more active from late spring through early autumn, when conditions are warm and the soil holds moisture. This is when lawns are growing quickly—and also when they’re most vulnerable to pest attack.

Adjust your lawn care routine with the seasons:

• Spring – Monitor for grubs and beetles as temperatures rise.
• Summer – Watch for armyworms and dry stress that attracts pests.
• Autumn – Repair and fertilise lawns to prepare for winter and reduce pest breeding grounds.

Integrated Lawn Care

Lawn pest control works best when it’s part of a broader lawn care strategy. Mowing at the right height, avoiding over-fertilising, and watering deeply but infrequently all help reduce the chances of pest outbreaks.

The Billbug

If your lawn is showing signs of stress and damage despite regular care, a less obvious culprit might be hiding in plain sight—the billbug. Often overlooked, this beetle and its larvae can cause serious damage to lawns across South Australia, particularly during the warmer months.

What Is a Billbug?

The billbug is a small weevil, part of the beetle family, with a long, snout-like “bill” that gives it its name. While the adult beetles feed on grass stems and are visible above ground, it’s their larvae—small, creamy-white grubs with reddish-brown heads—that do the most harm. These grubs burrow into the base of grass stems and roots, causing widespread dieback.

They’re especially common in warm, dry regions and tend to target couch, kikuyu, and buffalo grasses, which are widely used in South Australian lawns.

Telltale Signs of Billbug Damage

Billbug damage can often be mistaken for drought stress or nutrient deficiency. However, there are a few clues to help you identify them:

• Irregular patches of browning or dead grass
• Turf that breaks apart easily at the base when pulled
• Grass that appears shredded near the soil surface
• Increased bird activity (feeding on the larvae)
• Hollow stems or small piles of frass (insect droppings) near the crown of the plant

Because the larvae feed internally, damage can go unnoticed until entire patches of turf begin to die off.

Life Cycle and Activity in South Australia

In South Australia, adult billbugs typically become active in spring and early summer, laying eggs near the base of grass plants. These eggs hatch into larvae that begin feeding immediately. The damage is usually most noticeable in late summer and early autumn, when grub numbers are highest.

Lawns that are frequently watered and fertilised may actually attract more adults, as lush growth provides an ideal breeding ground.

Natural and Low-Impact Control Methods

While chemical treatments are available, many gardeners in South Australia prefer to use environmentally friendly approaches to manage billbugs. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Maintain Lawn Health – A thick, healthy lawn can tolerate more insect pressure. Regular mowing, proper irrigation, and avoiding over-fertilising can help strengthen grass and reduce damage.
2. Monitor for Adult Beetles – Check for adult billbugs in spring by inspecting grass near paths or driveways. They’re most active in the early morning or late afternoon. Catching them early may prevent larvae from developing later in the season.
3. Use Beneficial Nematodes – Certain species of beneficial nematodes (Steinernema carpocapsae) are effective in targeting billbug larvae in the soil. These microscopic worms are safe for pets, people, and other beneficial insects.
4. Dethatch and Aerate – Reducing thatch buildup and improving soil structure discourages adult beetles from laying eggs and makes it harder for larvae to thrive.
5. Monitor Regularly – Keep a close eye on your lawn through summer. Early detection of damage gives you more options to control billbugs naturally before they become a serious problem.

Lawn Types at Higher Risk

Buffalo and couch grasses—popular in South Australian backyards due to their drought resistance—are commonly affected by billbugs. These grasses should be checked more frequently during the warmer months, especially after heavy rainfall followed by warm temperatures.