Bagworm Control on Pecan: Tanglefoot and Orthene

Bagworm Control on Pecan: Tanglefoot and Orthene

Bagworms (or webworms) on pecan trees can be managed with two trunk-based methods: Tanglefoot (sticky band) to trap descending caterpillars, or Orthene (acephate) sprayed on the trunk to kill them as they crawl down to pupate.

Application

• Tanglefoot: Wrap trunk with duct tape (sticky side out) and coat with Tanglefoot. Replace when covered.
• Orthene: Spray trunk from ground to first branches; caterpillars die on contact. Systemic action also protects foliage.
• Both are available at nurseries; Tanglefoot is non-toxic.

Apply in late spring when caterpillars are active. Combine with foliar Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for canopy feeding stages.