Question
We live in Salem, Oregon and forthe past three years most of our lawn turns brown by June.  I tried digging for larvae count but couldn't find any - maybe I tested at the wrong time of year.

Our lawn is an old one, creeping bent grass and I understand this is difficult to maintain.  We don't use pesticides but how can I detect and get rid of crane flies.  Do you recommend I just re-sod in the Fall?

Advise would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Sylvia

Answer
Why do you think it is crane fly larve that affect the grass ?

Creeping bent grass is susceptible to very hot temperatures and also to lack of water. It is quite a challenge to maintain it. For proper maintenance consider these points:

- Very low traffic tolerance (keep traffic off)
- Frequent and close mowing requirements (atleast daily)
- Low drought tolerance. water twice per week in summer.
- Heavy thatch should be removed annually.
- fertilized in spring and fall (not summer).

My guess is that the difficulty in case is what causing the lawn to go brown rather than insects especially if you have not been able to find indications of insect damage.