Caterpillars
Wednesday, 25 May 2005 10:45
Various Lepidopteran caterpillars such as Eastern Tent Caterpillars, Winter Moth (Eastern MA), Forest Tent Caterpillars and Gypsy Moths are active now and some in very high numbers. As a result, caterpillars that primarily feed on trees, are dropping to the ground and feeding on annuals, perennials and herbs in retail yards and greenhouses. Examples of the various caterpillars and fact sheets can be found on the UMass Extension Landscape Message listed below. There are several materials that can be used to manage caterpillars such as the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (B.t.k.) (Dipel Pro DF, Javelin WG), spinosad ( Conserve SC) or tebuzenozide (Confirm T/O). Note: The caterpillars must eat B.t.k. to be affected and it works best on young caterpillars. Eastern Tent and Forest Tent Caterpillars are too large to treat with B.t.k. in most areas.
UMass Extension Landscape Message - The landscape message is from the UMass Extension Landscape, Nursery and Urban Forestry Program.
Tina
