Caterpillar Frass Under Potted Ficus: Identifying the Droppings

A 5-foot potted ficus on a covered second-floor patio produces 20-50 oblong, ⅓-inch droppings daily. Tree appears healthy with no leaf or trunk damage.

Diagnosis

The droppings are caterpillar frass (excrement). Look for caterpillars hiding during day—check at night. Examine leaves for chewing damage. The caterpillars may be small or well-camouflaged.

Control

Use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT/Dipel) or other caterpillar-specific insecticides. Hand-pick if found. The tree's health suggests early detection.