Thatch is a layer of dead grass and organic debris that builds up between the soil and live grass, preventing water, nutrients, and air from reaching the roots. Excessive thatch can lead to disease, pest issues, and poor turf health, making removal essential for a lush, resilient lawn.

Armyworms are commonly observed moving in large groups across lawns, feeding openly during daylight hours, which aids in their detection. They are typically large caterpillars with longitudinal stripes on their bodies and a netlike pattern on their heads. The fall armyworm, a persistent pest for over a century, targets various plants, including turfgrasses, with a preference for well-fertilized bermudagrasses. They may also infest freshly sodded zoysia grass.