Tent Caterpillar Removal Bag Worm Removal shows how to get rid of tent caterpillars on small trees. The video also briefly diverts to cedar apple rust.
Every morning I grab my cup of coffee and walk around the homestead. This is therapy for me to just relax, take in nature, enjoy the work that I have done, and to look for items that need to be addressed. One of those items that occasionally needs to be addressed is pests on the plants. Recently on my walks I noticed that tent caterpillars have moved into my orchard and needed to be taken care of.
The American elderberry shrub (Sambucus canadensis) produces beautiful clusters of flowers and berries that birds and humans alike find delicious. However, these attractive shrubs are frequently plagued by hungry caterpillar pests that can quickly defoliate the plants. Getting rid of caterpillars on American elderberry shrubs takes some persistence, but is possible with the right techniques.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover how to identify the caterpillars, effective organic and chemical control methods, preventative strategies, and tips for keeping your American elderberry shrub healthy and caterpillar-free
Identifying the Culprits
The first step is identifying the type of caterpillars infesting your American elderberry shrub. Look for:
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Elderberry borer moth Creamy white caterpillars with dark spots along the sides that bore into stems,
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Red-humped caterpillar 2 inch long black caterpillar with red spots and white bands.
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Spotted lanternfly: Invasive planthopper with red, black, and white wings. Nymphs are black with white spots.
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Loopers: Green, inchworm-like caterpillars that arch into a loop when crawling.
Correct identification allows you to choose suitable control methods that target the specific pest. Now let’s look at effective ways to get rid of them.
Organic and Natural Control Methods
For an eco-friendly approach, try these organic options first:
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Manual removal: Pick caterpillars off by hand and drop them into soapy water. Wear gloves to protect yourself.
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Strong water spray: Blast caterpillars off the plant with a forceful hose spray.
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Encourage natural predators: Attract birds, beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and wasps that feed on caterpillars.
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Neem oil: This organic pesticide disrupts caterpillar growth when sprayed on leaves.
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Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt): Apply this natural bacteria toxic to caterpillars.
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Horticultural oils: These oils smother soft-bodied pests like caterpillars when applied to leaves.
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Diatomaceous earth: Sprinkle this abrasive dust on leaves to shred the caterpillars’ exoskeletons.
Chemical Pesticide Options
For severe infestations, chemical insecticides may be warranted:
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Carbaryl: Apply this carbamate insecticide as a spray or dust. Wear protective gear when using.
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Permethrin: Effective pyrethroid insecticide caterpillar killer. Use with caution and follow label directions.
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Diflubenzuron: Insect growth regulator that disrupts the molting process. Low toxicity to mammals.
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Spinosad: Natural insecticide derived from bacteria. Less harmful to beneficial insects.
Only use pesticides strictly according to label instructions to avoid environmental and health hazards. Combine chemical and organic methods for best control.
Preventing Future Caterpillar Outbreaks
The best defense is a good offense. Implement these proactive measures to help prevent caterpillars on your American elderberry shrub:
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Remove fallen leaves, debris, and weeds from around the shrub to eliminate pest hiding spots.
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Apply sticky barrier bands around stems to prevent caterpillars from climbing onto the plant.
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Maintain proper pruning and watering to keep the shrub healthy and vigorous. Healthy plants can better withstand pest attacks.
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Check shrubs frequently and remove egg masses before they hatch.
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Introduce beneficial plants like dill, fennel, and mint to repel caterpillars.
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Apply kaolin clay spray which acts as a protective insect-repelling barrier.
Caring for Your Shrub After Caterpillar Damage
Once the infestation is under control, your American elderberry shrub will need some TLC to recover from caterpillar defoliation:
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Remove and dispose of stripped branches to prevent disease.
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Water deeply to reduce plant stress.
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Apply a nitrogen fertilizer to stimulate regrowth.
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Mulch around root zone to conserve moisture.
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Monitor for borers and other pests attracted to weakened plants.
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Be patient for recovery, which may take several seasons.
With persistence and an integrated pest management plan, you can protect your American elderberry shrub from future caterpillar woes. A healthy, vibrant shrub will continue providing beauty to your landscape and bountiful berries for years to come when properly cared for.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caterpillars on American Elderberry Shrubs
What are signs of a caterpillar infestation?
Look for chewed leaves, stripped branches, visible caterpillars, spider web-like nests, and dried up sawdust-like frass. Stunted growth and wilting are other clues.
What caterpillars commonly attack American elderberry shrubs?
Elderberry borer, red-humped caterpillar, loopers, and spotted lanternfly are the most likely culprits. Identify them to choose suitable treatments.
How can I safely get rid of caterpillars organically?
Handpick, spray off with water, use neem oil, introduce beneficial insects, apply Bt or diatomaceous earth for organic and eco-friendly control.
When should I take action against caterpillars?
Early intervention is key. Get rid of young caterpillars and egg masses before significant damage occurs. Check shrubs frequently.
How can I help my shrub recover after caterpillar damage?
Prune damaged branches, fertilize, water, and mulch the root zone. Monitor for borers and diseases. Be patient, as full recovery takes time.
Prevention and persistent monitoring are vital for keeping your American elderberry shrub caterpillar-free. Implement a proactive integrated pest management plan and your shrub will thrive for years to come. Let us know if you have any other caterpillar questions!
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Why not attack later in the day?
The caterpillars move like caffeine addicts on a coffee high in the afternoon. They are also spread out to various spots on the tree. I have found that the caterpillars are very slow moving in the morning and that is a good time to get them when they are all in the nest. For this reason, I usually plan my caterpillar assault in the early morning before work.
My method of killing these little boogers is to drown them in water. I take a 5-gallon bucket and add some dish soap to it. Then I fill the bucket about half to three-quarters of the way up with warm water. The warm water is for me, so my hands don’t freeze as they would with cold water. The soap is to break the buoyancy so the caterpillars will not be able to “walk on water” – they will sink.
For my tree this year, I was able to cut the branches. All of the caterpillars were at the end of the branches and there were not too many. I just cut the end of the branches off where the caterpillars were and dropped the entire branch in the water and pushed it under with my hands (this is where warm water helps). If they were in the middle of a branch or on a branch that I did not want to cut, I would pull the caterpillars off by hand, but you do risk missing some caterpillars or some eggs.
Click on the picture below to view the Tent Caterpillar Removal Bag Worm Removal YouTube video.
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Yellow Spots on Apple Leaves
During my walks, I have noticed about half of my apple trees have yellow/brown spots on the leaves. This is usually a condition known as cedar apple rust. It is caused by having a plant in the cedar/juniper family close by and it having a fungus on it. Cedar apple rust requires a plant in the cedar family and in the apple family to complete its life cycle.
The fungus does not usually kill the plant, but can cause a reduction or loss of fruit production. The issue is worse on years when you have a very wet spring. There are treatments that you can spray on the apple trees, but I don’t care to use chemicals and usually just let it run its course and it is usually better next year.