Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies. Caterpillars can be smooth, hairy or spiky.
Damage
While their winged adult forms are sometimes beneficial to flowers and gardens by aiding in pollination, the worm-like larvae can be serious pests. Caterpillars can damage plants by chewing on the soft and succulent leaves, flowers, shoots and fruits of plants, and by boring into trees and shrubs (see Tree Borers). As they progress through their development and become larger, Caterpillars can cause increasing damage, up to the point of eating entire leaves.
Location
Caterpillars are found throughout the United States.
Similar or Related Pests
Gypsy Moth larvae, Armyworms, Cabbage Worms, Cutworms, Horn Worms
Cultural Solutions
- Inspect your garden and ornamental plants regularly for signs of Caterpillars.
- Hand pick and discard if found with the exception of Slug or Saddleback Caterpillars because they have poisonous spines.
Complete Brand Insect Killer For Soil & Turf-32 oz. Ready-To-Spray
Complete Brand Insect Killer For Soil & Turf-32 oz. Ready-To-Spray
- Kills listed surface insects in 24 hours
- Kills soil insects for up to 3 months
- Kills Mosquitoes
- 32oz Ready-To-Spray treats up to 5,000 sq. ft
- 40oz. Concentrate makes up to 80 gallons of spray
- Excludes Pharaoh Ants
12 Month Tree & Shrub Protect & Feed II Concentrate-32 oz. Concentrate
12 Month Tree & Shrub Protect & Feed II Concentrate-32 oz. Concentrate
- Kills listed insects and prevents new infestations for up to 12 months
- Slow-release feeding improves plant health
- Kills Japanese Beetles (adult), Emerald Ash Borers, Adelgids, Leafminers and Fall Webworms
12 Mo Tree & Shrub Protect & Feed II Granules-4 lb. Granules
12 Mo Tree & Shrub Protect & Feed II Granules-4 lb. Granules
- Kills listed insects and prevents new infestations for up to 12 months
- Slow-release feeding improves plant health
- Kills Japanese Beetles (adult), Adelgids, Leafminers and Fall Webworms
