Bermudagrass mites

This mite is a more serious problem of bermudagrass on golf courses, home lawns and commercial landscapes in southern states than it is in Missouri. The mites live and feed under the leaf sheaths. Bermudagrass will appear weak and off-color in the spring and does not respond to irrigation or fertilization. Leaf blades are often twisted and yellow at the tips. “Tufted” or “rosetted” growth results from shortened stem internodes. If not treated, the bermudagrass will thin and die out. Hot, dry weather will enhance the symptoms when the grass is under stress.

IPM1020, new June 2003