Caterpillars

There are many different types of caterpillar (the larvae of moths and butterflies of course). We have already described many different types, but I wanted to include a separate heading to catch all the rest. They are a problem because they feed on leaves and when present in large numbers they can be quite devastating.

If they aren’t too numerous the best control is to hand pick, though they are often well camouflaged and hard to spot (though the damaged leaves alert you to their presence, while fresh droppings give away their location). If there are too many you might try a spray of B.T. Many caterpillars are preyed upon by birds, ground Beetles, spiders, small wasps and a host of other predators and this is the best way to control them.

Image: Clemson University - USDA Cooperative Extension Slide Series, Bugwood.org