Managing Tent Caterpillars in Trees

Tent caterpillars create conspicuous white webs in branch crotches, especially on cherry trees. The larvae are voracious leaf-eaters but rarely kill trees.

Control Options

• Mechanical: Tear open webs with a long pole to expose caterpillars to birds and weather.
• Biological: Spray Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) products like Thuricide, Dipel, or Caterpillar Attack. Bt kills caterpillars without harming beneficial insects.

Treatment is only needed if webs are unsightly or caterpillars drop onto patios. The pests pupate in soil, emerge as moths, and lay eggs for next year's generation.