Tent Worm Control

I live in Fort Worth, Texas have trees full of little green caterpillars. They make little webs little tents And wiped out a half acres of trees in a week no leaves how do I stop them thank you, Philip

Hi, Phillip

Over the years we have used different methods based on the time of year.

In the fall, tent worms can be eliminated by removing the caterpillar egg nests.

In the spring, ways of eradicating tent worms aka tent caterpillars, include neem oil, Bacillus thuringiensis bacterium, and introducing beneficial insects.

When we have has an infestation I have tried cutting the affected limbs, etc.

While I have not tried using a 50/50 vinegar-to-water spray might work.

I usually ignore them or cut off the branch with the nest, but it seems they cause many more problems where you live. All proper safety concerns in mind, I know people in my area who eliminate the nests with a match or lighter.

You can cut the branch and put them in freezer, after they are frozen take them out of the tent and they make great fishing bait.
That’s the only useful purpose I’ve beer found for them.