Have you noticed large white webs on the ends of shrubs and tree branches across Houston? Fall webworms are notorious for creating these webs. Despite their name, they are often spotted during the summer months in Houston. Let’s learn more!
Where Are They Spotted?
The fuzzy caterpillars spin protective webs on shrubs and trees, so they can feed off them. These white webs can be seen on maple, pecan, walnut, willow, apple, and other types of trees. Sometimes if these caterpillars live in the same plant for years, it can weaken the tree or shrub, causing it to become vulnerable to disease, drought, and other pests.
What To Do If You See Webworms?
- Make sure to remove the webs as soon as possible in June or July, when they first appear.
- Take a rake or big stick to physically remove the web from your shrub or tree.You can also prune your trees to take out the affected branches.
- Want insects to take care of the problem? Use a spray bottle of water or a stick to break open the web, so insects can come in and kill off the webworms.
- You can also plant sunflowers or other flowers within the daisy family to encourage tiny wasps or other insects that will help kill off webworms.
Got other tips for dealing with those pesky webworms? I want to hear them.
