Pest Control

 
At Fox Mowing, our Pest Control Services are designed to protect your home and garden from unwanted intruders—safely and effectively. Whether you’re dealing with ants, spiders, cockroaches, or lawn grubs, we use targeted treatments that are tough on pests but safe for your family and pets. With expert knowledge and reliable service, we help restore comfort and peace of mind to your outdoor spaces.

Our approach focuses on identifying the source of infestations to ensure lasting results. We tailor each treatment plan to your specific environment, targeting common lawn and garden pests without harming beneficial insects or damaging plant life. From spot treatments to full property coverage, we work efficiently to minimise disruption and deliver fast, visible results.

For ongoing protection, we also offer scheduled pest management programs designed to keep your property pest-free year-round. Whether you’re after a one-time solution or continuous defence, Fox Mowing is your trusted partner in maintaining a safe, healthy outdoor environment.

Organic Pest Control

If you are keen on looking after the environment and not using potentially harmful and hazardous chemicals on your flowers, plants and vegetables then there are a range of organic pest control methods that you can utilise to help deal with common pests that can invade your garden.

The first step to organic pest control is to ensure your garden and plants are healthy and have ideal growing conditions. This will include ensuring there is adequate water, minimal weeds, regular fertilising and sufficient amounts of shade and sun for the plants particular needs.

A rich and organic soil maintains the PH balance encouraging the growth of healthy plants and vegetables. A poor and nutrient deprived soil will hamper the plants growth and will increase the production of carbohydrates which insects thrive on. To increase soil health, add compost and fertilisers to restore nutrients to the soil and plants.

Plants that are stressed or are over or under watered will encourage disease and pests to attack them. Regularly monitoring the state of your plants will help determine any problems before pest populations begin to multiply.

Beating Pests Naturally

There are a variety of Organic pest control methods to help treat and prevent pest infestations and attacks once you notice that you have a problem. These include:

Sticky Traps

A rigid material of a particular colour (yellow, white or blue) that is coated with a sticky substance that is hung close the plant height. The trap will catch insects and bugs that are attracted to the colour. You will then be able to determine what pests are in your garden and the extent of their numbers. Sticky traps can be made at home or purchased from a garden supplier.

Barriers – create a physical barrier between the pest and the plant such as a thin netting over the plants that is secured firmly to the ground, so the pests cannot attack the plants.

Products & Sprays

There are a variety of organic sprays available to combat common pests. These are available at your local nursery or retailer and include:

• Bacillus Thuringiensis or BT – a natural bacterium found in the soil which is sold in a liquid or powder form that is mixed and diluted with water and sprayed onto the plants. BT helps to controls caterpillars, moths and grubs.
• Pyrethrum – a natural insecticide made from the flowers of chrysanthemums used for controlling grasshoppers, ants, aphids, caterpillars and thrips.
• Insecticide Soap – This is mixed with water and then sprayed directly onto the insects. Many insects and bugs cannot tolerate soap and it is highly affective on aphids and other soft bodied pests. Care should be given not to spray any beneficial insects in the area. The spray should not be applied during hot weather and should be tested on each plant prior to use as it can cause the leaves to burn.

Home Made Remedies

If you want to opt for the cheaper DIY method, there are a variety of home made remedies that can be made up using a mixture of common household items – some of these include.

• Insecticide: Chop four large onions, two cloves of garlic, and four hot chillies. Mix them together and cover with warm, soapy water and leave it to stand overnight. Strain off that liquid and add it to five litres of water to create an all-round insecticide.
• Pesticide: Cover a crushed garlic bulb with vegetable oil and leave for two days, strain liquid and then add a couple of drops of dishwashing liquid and use one millilitre of concentrate to one litre of water and spray over your affected plants.
• Nature Sprays: made from basil leaves, camomile flowers, chopped chives, chilli, garlic, eucalyptus leaves or citronella. Soak a cupful of an item in boiling water for a day or two and then strain liquid, the result will be an environmentally friendly homemade spray that can be used to kill pests.

Attract Good Bugs To Your Garden To Combat The Bad Ones

The type of flowers and plants you have in your garden can go along way in the prevention of pest attacks.

Instead of choosing plants according to aesthetical beauty or smell, consider planting a range of flowers and herbs that have an abundance of pollen and nectar. This will attract pollinators and other beneficial insects into your garden, which will in turn help to rid you of other troublesome and unwanted pests.

Try Planting:

• Members of the cabbage family, flowering turnips, Mazuma and Mustard. These are full of nectar and pollen which attract pollinators as well as Hoverflies and Lacewings which help to control aphids.
• Salvia, Rosemary, Sage, Dill, Fennel, Coriander. These will attract insects such as Praying Mantises, Assassin Bugs and Robber Flies which eat caterpillars.
• Marigolds. Plant Marigolds alongside vegetable crops such as tomatoes as they can help prevent Root Knot Nematodes (microscopic organisms that attack the roots of plants eventually killing them)
• Choco plants or vines. Chocos will immediately attract a range of ladybirds, some of which can help to control scale, mildew, mealy bug and aphids.

So what ever form or extent you like to take it, there are a wide range of organic pest control methods that you do yourself, or you can purchase that are natural and greener choice for the environment.

And, of course, if you want some additional help and advice on organic gardening or pest control Fox Mowing can look after it all for you. And while we’re there in your garden, we can do a lot of other stuff too to get your garden looking, and feeling, its best.

Army Worm

Noticed brown patches suddenly appearing on your lawn? You could be dealing with a destructive army worm infestation—and fast action is key.

At Fox Mowing, we know how quickly army worms can invade and destroy healthy lawns across Australia. Our professional pest control service targets army worms before they take over, helping you restore and protect your lawn with effective and safe solutions.

What Are Army Worms?

Army worms are the larval stage of moths and are named for the way they move across lawns in groups, devouring grass as they go—much like an army.

These pests are common in Australian warm-weather months (especially late summer and autumn) and thrive in lush, well-watered lawns. They often strike suddenly, turning vibrant green turf into patchy, straw-coloured damage almost overnight.

Signs You May Have Army Worms

Keep an eye out for these warning signs:

• Sudden brown patches in your lawn that spread quickly
• Small greenish-brown caterpillars (up to 4 cm long) in the grass, especially in the early evening
• Increased bird activity on the lawn (they’re feeding on the worms)
• Grass blades chewed down to the crown or soil level
• Silken webbing or excrement in the lawn

If caught early, army worm damage can be stopped and repaired. Left untreated, they can strip a lawn in days—especially couch, buffalo, and kikuyu grasses.

Our Army Worm Treatment Service

Fox Mowing offers an effective, targeted pest control service to remove army worms and help your lawn recover.

Inspection & Diagnosis

We inspect your lawn to confirm if army worms are present and assess the extent of the infestation.

Targeted Treatment

We apply a lawn-safe insecticide designed to eliminate army worms quickly—stopping their feeding cycle almost immediately.

Aftercare & Recovery Advice

We’ll advise you on lawn recovery steps such as fertilising, watering, and mowing to help your turf bounce back.

Optional Lawn Top Dressing or Reseeding

If the damage is severe, we can provide or recommend follow-up services to help restore bare or weakened patches.

Why Act Quickly?

Army worms:

• Breed and spread rapidly
• Cause severe damage in a matter of days
• Prefer healthy, irrigated lawns—meaning well-kept turf is most at risk
• Can return if not fully eliminated

Fast detection and treatment save your lawn from total destruction and reduce the chance of repeat infestations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know if it’s army worm and not another pest?

Army worm damage appears rapidly and in patches. You’ll often see the caterpillars in the evening or early morning. Our team will confirm the presence during inspection.

2. Is the treatment safe for kids and pets?

Yes. We use approved, lawn-safe insecticides and provide clear instructions on when it’s safe to return to the lawn—usually within 24 hours.

3. Can you prevent army worms from returning?

While no solution is 100% preventative, regular lawn care, prompt treatment, and seasonal monitoring reduce the risk. We can advise you on future-proofing your lawn.

4. Will my lawn recover after army worm damage?

Most healthy lawns bounce back with the right care. We’ll help guide you through recovery steps including feeding, watering, and patch repair if needed.

5. When are army worms most active in Australia?

They typically strike from late summer to early autumn, especially after rain and in warm, humid conditions.

Why Choose Fox Mowing for Army Worm Control?

• Fast response and expert diagnosis
• Effective, pet- and lawn-safe treatments
• Lawn recovery advice and follow-up options
• Experienced, insured professionals across Australia
• Part of your complete lawn and garden care solution

Don’t wait until your lawn is overrun. If you suspect army worms, act now to minimise damage and keep your turf healthy.

Grubs

Is your lawn turning patchy, soft underfoot, or being torn up by birds overnight? You might be dealing with lawn grubs—one of the most common and destructive turf pests across Australia.

At Fox Mowing, we provide fast and effective lawn grub treatment services to stop the damage, save your turf, and restore your lawn to full health. Acting quickly is the key to preventing widespread infestation and costly repairs.

What Are Lawn Grubs?

“Lawn grubs” is a common term used for several species of turf-eating larvae, including:

• Black beetle larvae
• Scarab beetles
• Curl grubs
• White curl grubs

These grubs live in the soil and feed on lawn roots, often going unnoticed until damage becomes severe. They are most active in the warm months—typically from spring through autumn, especially after rainfall.

Signs of Lawn Grub Infestation

Keep an eye out for these warning signs in your turf:

• Brown or thinning patches that appear despite watering
• Spongy or loose-feeling turf that lifts easily from the soil
• Unusual bird, bandicoot, or possum activity, especially early morning or evening
• Yellowing grass that quickly worsens
• Small white grubs curled in a C-shape when found in the soil

If you spot these signs, it’s time to act—before your lawn’s root system is permanently damaged.

Our Lawn Grub Control Service

Fox Mowing offers a complete grub control treatment to target these pests and help your lawn recover.

Lawn Inspection & Identification

We assess your lawn’s condition and check for the presence of grubs or similar pests.

Targeted Lawn Treatment

We apply a professional-grade grub-specific insecticide, safe for lawns and effective in breaking the grub life cycle.

Lawn Recovery Guidance

We offer advice on turf recovery, fertilisation, watering, and possible aeration or top-dressing to rebuild root strength.

Ongoing Monitoring (Optional)

In high-risk areas, we can schedule follow-up checks or seasonal treatment to prevent reinfestation.

The Damage Lawn Grubs Can Cause

Grubs feed on your lawn’s roots, leading to:

• Widespread turf dieback
• Reduced water and nutrient uptake
• Weakened turf prone to weeds and disease
• Increased erosion and soil instability in sloped areas

Unlike surface pests, grub damage happens below the surface—so the harm is often extensive by the time you notice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s the difference between army worms and grubs?

Army worms feed on grass blades above the surface, while grubs eat the roots below. The damage may look similar, but the treatment is different. Our team will identify the correct pest during inspection.

2. Are the treatments safe for pets and kids?

Yes. We use approved grub treatments that are safe for families and pets. We’ll let you know when it’s safe to return to the lawn (usually within 24 hours).

3. Can I treat grubs myself with store-bought products?

DIY products may offer temporary relief but often don’t penetrate deep enough or last long. Our professional treatments are more effective and properly timed for maximum impact.

4. How often should I treat for grubs?

In high-risk areas, we recommend monitoring and potentially treating once or twice a year—particularly late spring and early autumn.

5. Will my lawn bounce back after grub damage?

Most lawns will recover with the right care—feeding, watering, and possible reseeding or aeration. We’ll guide you through the recovery process.

Why Choose Fox Mowing for Lawn Grub Control?

• Experienced local lawn specialists
• Effective and lawn-safe treatments
• Fast response and reliable service
• Lawn recovery guidance included
• Part of your complete garden care plan

Don’t wait until your lawn is riddled with dead patches and bird holes. With Fox Mowing’s professional lawn grub control, you can stop the damage early and get your lawn back on track.

Nematodes (Root Knot)

Is your lawn struggling no matter how well you water, mow, or feed it? You could be dealing with a hidden underground threat—nematodes.

At Fox Mowing, we offer expert nematode inspection and lawn recovery solutions tailored to Australian conditions. These microscopic pests attack your lawn’s root system, and because they’re invisible to the eye, they often go undiagnosed until serious damage is done.

What Are Nematodes?

Nematodes are microscopic roundworms that live in the soil. While some are beneficial (like those used in organic pest control), others are plant-parasitic nematodes that feed on the roots of grass, weakening the plant and making it more susceptible to stress, disease, and drought.

They are more common in sandy or light soils and warmer regions across Australia, especially during spring and summer when lawns are actively growing.

Signs Your Lawn May Have a Nematode Problem

Because nematodes are microscopic, you won’t see them directly—but you will notice the damage they cause:

• Pale, yellowing patches that don’t improve with watering or fertiliser
• Thinning or patchy turf that struggles to establish
• Poor root development—grass lifts easily from the soil
• Increased heat and drought stress, even in irrigated lawns
• No response to usual lawn treatments

If you’ve tried everything and your lawn still won’t thrive, nematodes may be the underlying issue.

How Fox Mowing Can Help

We provide a comprehensive nematode management service focused on identification, control, and lawn recovery.

Lawn Health Assessment

We examine your lawn’s symptoms, soil type, and growing conditions to identify if nematodes are the likely cause.

Referral for Soil Testing (If Required)

For severe or persistent cases, we may recommend soil sampling and lab analysis to confirm nematode presence and type.

Tailored Treatment Solutions

While nematodes can’t be eliminated completely, we use a combination of methods to reduce populations and strengthen your lawn’s resistance, such as:

• Organic soil conditioners
• Biological treatments or beneficial nematodes
• Wetting agents to reduce stress
• Adjusting mowing, watering, and fertilising routines

Long-Term Lawn Recovery Plan

We’ll guide you in restoring lawn health through proper nutrition, soil care, and seasonal maintenance, helping your turf grow stronger and better able to resist future outbreaks.

Why Act Early?

Nematode damage:

• Often mimics nutrient or watering issues
• Can go unnoticed for months
• Leads to chronic lawn decline if untreated
• Is more common in regularly mown and well-maintained lawns (ironically!)

Early intervention helps prevent long-term thinning and patchiness and can save you from expensive re-turfing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I see nematodes in my lawn?

No—nematodes are microscopic. You can’t see them with the naked eye, which is why diagnosis is often delayed.

2. Are nematodes dangerous to humans or pets?

No. The types of nematodes affecting lawns are plant parasites and are not harmful to people or animals.

3. Can I treat nematodes myself?

While some DIY products exist, proper management often involves a multi-step approach—best handled by lawn care professionals who understand soil biology.

4. Will my lawn recover from nematode damage?

Yes, with the right care. We focus on rebuilding root strength and improving soil conditions to support healthy regrowth.

5. How do I prevent nematodes from returning?

Good soil health, aeration, organic matter, and regular monitoring help reduce the risk. We can assist with an ongoing care plan.

Why Choose Fox Mowing for Nematode Management?

• Expert lawn care professionals with real-world experience
• Tailored treatment plans based on your location and soil
• Eco-conscious and pet-safe solutions
• Support with recovery and prevention
• Part of a complete lawn and garden care service

If your lawn just isn’t thriving and you’ve ruled out pests and poor care—nematodes could be the silent culprit. Let Fox Mowing help identify and manage the issue so you can enjoy a lush, healthy lawn again.

Get in touch with us today to book an inspection or learn more about nematode management.