Caterpillars

There are many different types of caterpillars. The above picture is fall webworm, which makes webs at the end of a branch and can be seen later in the season.  Eastern tent caterpillars are also very common and they make their nest closer to the trunk of the tree.  No matter what type of caterpillar you have, their nest can be an eyesore and they can even defoliate your tree as they eat.  Trees typically don’t die from these caterpillars, but they sure do slow down in growth!             

If you see a nest in your tree, the best thing to do is cut it out and dispose of the nest before they start wondering around and laying eggs.  You don’t want to worry about 400 more coming out next spring!  The egg nests are hard little brown attachments to branches and most people wouldn’t even notice they were there. But when caterpillars make their silk webs when they are larger, everyone can see them!             

Spraying for these pests is possible, but once they have created the silken nest they can be very difficult to control.  It is best to remove the branch, or if it is too difficult, hire your local Arborist to come and remove it for you.  Regular tree evaluations will help limit the number of pests in your trees and shrubs.  Early detection is always better than trying to fight a huge problem.