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green worms


Question
I have these small green worms, they are maybe 1/2 inch long and very thin.  They hang from threads much like a spider would spin.  They are all over my yard, you can't walk outside without getting 10-20 of them on you.  They do not sting or bite, but are a real nuisance.  How can I get rid of them? I would prefer a natural method over a chemical one.

Answer
Can you tell me where you are located?  This sounds like inchworm or cankerworm infestation.  But these are normally not found in northern latitudes until May or June.  If you are in a more southern climate, you may have earlier infestations.

One of the most effective controls is the use of a biological control, _Bacillus thuringiensis_, a bacterium that produces a toxin that is lethal to loopers, inchworms, and cankerworms.  

At this point in the infestation, the larvae are feeding and will seek underground sites to remain dormant until the following season.

The bacterial (B. thuringiensis) control works only while the larvae are actively feeding.  So, timing is important.  

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