Home
>
Lawn Care
>
Selection, Culture and Care
>
Pests and Problems
>
How do I check for insects in my lawn?
How do I check for insects in my lawn?
Here are two simple, low cost tests for checking for insects in your lawn.
![](http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/Portals/0/Gardening/Gardening%20Help/images/FAQ/FAQ0001.jpg)
First, remove the top and bottom a one-gallon tin can to produce a hollow cylinder.
![](http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/Portals/0/Gardening/Gardening%20Help/images/FAQ/FAQ0002.jpg)
Place the can on the ground and cut around it with a trowel then press the can into the cut to a depth of about 2 inches to make a good seal.
![](http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/Portals/0/Gardening/Gardening%20Help/images/FAQ/FAQ0003.jpg)
Fill the can with water. Fill it again as the water is absorbed into the ground. Any chinch bugs present should float to the top. Repeat the process in a few other locations. Turf close to walkways and drives is attractive to chinch bugs. None were found in this test.
![](http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/Portals/0/Gardening/Gardening%20Help/images/FAQ/FAQ0004.jpg)
Another test is to fill a large bucket with soapy water and pour it on a section of lawn. The soap will irritate any insects present and make them wiggle to the surface where they can be observed. Repeat in a few other locations in the yard.
Learn to identify any insects you find correctly. Some insects are beneficial!
Also, See "Grubs in Lawns" for how to test for grubs.