Certain species of trees are becoming covered with webs of Fall Webworms recently. Every few years, we’ll have infestations of these pests. It’s been several years since we’ve had a significant invasion, so we are due for one. These are larvae of the Fall Webworm moth, which feed on the outer leaves of trees such as pecan, hickory, persimmon, river birch, sweetgum, redbud, and a few others. We will probably see several generations this year, as they have come in early. The larvae will pupate, with moths emerging soon, laying eggs and starting the cycle again.
Although unsightly, webworms do not significantly damage trees. We can spray an insecticide on trees up to about 40’ high, which will help to lessen the further spread of the worms. If it was my tree, I would not worry about spraying however. The webs and damaged branches can be pruned out if they can be reached. Sprays will not cause the webs to disappear, and the damage has already been done. Sprays will only help to prevent further spread of the worms, and only for a few weeks. Wind and rain will eventually cause the webs to dissipate in most trees.
Even if invasions later this summer strip the tree of most of it’s leaves, which is unlikely, the tree is not going to die. It won’t be pretty, but it will be fine. So it’s your call as to whether to spray or not. Our minimum charge is $45, with an additional $5 per tree to spray.
Check out our optional services page!
