What Would Spring in North Carolina be Without Tent Caterpillars?
Tent caterpillars have hatched and can be seen making webs in the branch crotches of cherry, crabapple, and similar trees. The caterpillars leave the web during the day to feed on leaves and return in the evening. Simple physical destruction of the webs (without the use of fire) is effective but should be done in the early morning or evening when the caterpillars are present. A trick for those who are averse to touching the insects is to cover your hand with a plastic bag, scoop the web into the bag, and then turn it inside out and tie it shut. Pesticides may also be used on small caterpillars. Spray the foliage, not the webbing. Remember, this is NOT the fall webworm that occurs later in the year. Ornamental and Turf Insect Note No. 61 has more information and pictures.
