Snapdragon Buds Hollowed Out: Budworm Infestation

Dallas gardener: snapdragon buds turn brown, hollowed out, black granules (frass) inside. Wet spring.

Budworm Identification

Black granules = insect frass (caterpillar droppings). Budworm larvae bore into buds, eat contents, cause browning and drop.

No Effective Cure

• No reliable pesticide for budworm inside buds.
• Remove and destroy infested plants.
• Do not replant snapdragons, petunias, geraniums in same spot next year.
• Rotate crops.

Prevention

Monitor early, remove affected buds promptly, encourage beneficial wasps.

Budworm is a frustrating but manageable pest with sanitation.