3/31/2026 - By Harrell's

The annual bluegrass weevil (ABW) continues to be one of the most challenging and economically damaging pests facing golf course superintendents, particularly on highly managed turf surfaces. With multiple generations per year and a lifecycle that allows larvae to cause significant damage before symptoms are fully visible, ABW demands a proactive and well-timed management strategy. Successful control depends on understanding pest pressure, monitoring populations, and selecting the right products at the right stage of development.

Today’s turf managers have access to a wide range of chemistries and control tools designed to target ABW throughout its lifecycle—from adult suppression to larval control. Each option offers unique strengths, application considerations, and roles within an integrated pest management (IPM) program. In this article, we’ll explore several proven product solutions available to help superintendents and greenskeepers protect playing surfaces and maintain turf quality throughout the season.

Atexzo® Insecticide/Miticide for ABW

Atexzo® from Syngenta (isocycloseram; “Plinazolin” technology) is an IRAC Group 30 insecticide/miticide with contact and ingestion activity for ABW adult and larval control (all damaging stages), enabling broad timing flexibility compared to other products that only control ABW larvae. The unique mode of action is an excellent rotational tool for resistant management on ABW. For best results, use Atexzo® in a programmed approach with other larvicides such as Acelepryn (available in a liquid, granulated, or sparged form) and Ference. Atexzo® also controls other insect pests like surface feeding caterpillars, European crane fly, and billbugs when applications are timed and targeted appropriately.

Tetrino® for ABW

Tetrino® from envu contains tetraniliprole and is a Group 28 (diamide) insecticide promoted for fast-acting, systemic control of ABW larval stages, with rapid feeding cessation after exposure. Target early to mid-stage instar larvae with a preventive to early-curative timing. Tetrino® can also be effective on later stage larvae outside of the plant. For best results, combine with other effective products such as an adulticide and Dylox in a programmed approach. Tetrino® also controls many other damaging insect pests like surface feeding caterpillars and white grubs when applications are timed and targeted appropriately.

Ference® Insecticide for ABW

Ference® from Syngenta contains cyantraniliprole (anthranilic diamide; IRAC 28) for systemic control of ABW larval instars at all damaging stages (1–5), including larvae inside stems (early) and later instars feeding outside the stem. Ference® is best used in the spring and early summer as a first-line attack on ABW larvae, but can be incorporated into programs for later generations to target asynchronous populations, because it covers multiple larval stages rather than a narrow timing window.

Suprado Insecticide for ABW

Suprado from Quali-Pro contains novaluron and is an IRAC Group 15 insect growth regulator that interferes with chitin production during molting. Suprado disrupts ABW development and controls ABW more gradually vs rapid knockdown like other insecticides. It is effective across multiple ABW life stages and can be applied during adult and all larval life stages to deliver consistent control with a high degree of flexibility. As a unique IGR mode of action, Suprado is an excellent rotational option, especially in programs that frequently rely on diamide chemistries or synthetic pyrethroids for primary control.

MatchPoint® Insecticide for ABW

MatchPoint® from DOW contains spinosad and is an IRAC Group 5 insecticide to stop ABW feeding immediately and control larvae from 1st through 5th instar via contact and ingestion. It is best used as a later stage, rescue treatment in programs or in situations where diamide or pyrethroid resistance is suspected. Matchpoint® is formulated with a unique lignin component that helps to reduce UV degradation of the active ingredient spinosad, which allows post-application irrigation to be delayed up to 24 hours.

Dylox® 420 SL for ABW

Dylox® from envu is a fast-acting contact insecticide that works well on late-stage ABW larvae feeding outside of the plant. Dylox® can be effective in rescue treatments when watered in immediately, given its ability to move through thatch compared to many other insecticides. Dylox® can serve as an effective rotational active ingredient as a non-diamide chemistry in programs.

Not all products are registered in all states. Always read and follow product label instructions.

Your Harrell’s Rep Can Help You Build Your ABW Control and Prevention Program

Managing the annual bluegrass weevil is rarely accomplished with a single application or product alone. Instead, consistent success comes from combining accurate scouting, proper timing, and a rotation of effective chemistries to reduce pressure while supporting long-term resistance management. By understanding how each control option fits within your overall program, you can build a strategy that protects turf health, preserves playability, and maximizes application efficiency.

If you’re developing or refining your ABW control program, your Harrell’s Rep can help you evaluate product options, optimize timing, and tailor solutions to the specific conditions on your course. With the right plan in place, you can stay ahead of ABW pressure and keep your turf performing at its best all season long.