I have webworms in some of my trees, what are my options?
Webworms are out in full force in many areas. This is the webbing you see in many trees and these webs can contain hundreds of caterpillars. There are 88 species of trees that can serve as host trees and persimmon, pecan, black walnut and hickory are favorites. There are two races of the worms with two or three generations per summer depending upon the race. Damage is caused by the larvae feeding upon the leaves. Normally, the worm will not kill a tree, however, defoliation for a number of years can decrease tree’s vigor and, in the case of pecans, nut yield. If you can catch the web worms early and can reach them by pruning and destroying the branch this will work. Otherwise, control is through insecticides. There are many labeled insecticides, and any that can be used on caterpillars will work. You do need a strong enough sprayer that it will penetrate the web and reach into tall trees. If applying an insecticide to a fruiting or nut tree, make sure your choice of insecticide is labeled to allow for eating after spraying and determine how long it is before you consume after the application. Always read the label and follow the directions.
For more information, contact the OSU Extension Center, 14001 Acme Road, corner of MacArthur and Acme Road, in Shawnee, or call 273-7683.
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I have webworms in some of my trees, what are my options?
Webworms are out in full force in many areas. This is the webbing you see in many trees and these webs can contain hundreds of caterpillars. There are 88 species of trees that can serve as host trees and persimmon, pecan, black walnut and hickory are favorites. There are two races of the worms with two or three generations per summer depending upon the race. Damage is caused by the larvae feeding upon the leaves. Normally, the worm will not kill a tree, however, defoliation for a number of years can decrease tree’s vigor and, in the case of pecans, nut yield. If you can catch the web worms early and can reach them by pruning and destroying the branch this will work. Otherwise, control is through insecticides. There are many labeled insecticides, and any that can be used on caterpillars will work. You do need a strong enough sprayer that it will penetrate the web and reach into tall trees. If applying an insecticide to a fruiting or nut tree, make sure your choice of insecticide is labeled to allow for eating after spraying and determine how long it is before you consume after the application. Always read the label and follow the directions.
For more information, contact the OSU Extension Center, 14001 Acme Road, corner of MacArthur and Acme Road, in Shawnee, or call 273-7683.
