Summer has arrived, and with it comes the unwelcome return of cankerworms. But this year, the pesky moth larvae seem to be appearing earlier than usual, creating a heightened sense of concern for homeowners and gardeners alike. With their appetite for foliage and knack for defoliation, it’s essential to nip the infestation in the bud before it becomes a full-blown epidemic. Thankfully, there are several methods for managing cankerworms, including the use of Trichogramma wasps, systemic insecticide, or neem oil drench – all of which can be found at Foreman’s General Store.
Firstly, let’s take a closer look at these crawling, green-nighttime feeders. Cankerworm, an umbrella term for inchworms, is a widespread pest that feeds on trees and plants, causing leaf damage in severe cases. They often attack elms, oaks, maple, and apple trees. Their green, sometimes yellowish, caterpillar-like larvae have no legs in the middle of the body, making them distinctive from most caterpillars. Despite lacking a pair of legs, their inchworm capabilities of shrinking their middle and stretching their legs forward to gain a footing, allow them to move around trees quickly, making them difficult to control.
One way to combat cankerworms is by using Trichogramma wasps. Foreman’s General Store offers these biological pest controls, which operate by laying their eggs inside cankerworm eggs. When those eggs hatch, the wasp larvae eat the cankerworm egg, preventing it from hatching and beginning the cycle again. Trichogramma wasps are a suitable choice for customers who want to manage pests organically without the use of harsh chemicals.
Another option for managing cankerworms is by using systemic insecticides, like acephate or imidacloprid. This type of insecticide is absorbed by the plant and makes the leaves toxic, rendering them inedible to cankerworms. Although effective, customers should remember that systemic insecticides are toxic to pollinators such as bees, and should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when handling them.
Finally, customers who are looking for an organic option may want to consider using a neem oil drench. Unlike traditional insecticides, neem oil drench is non-toxic and can kill cankerworms, as well as other pests, without harming beneficial insects. The oil works by coating the leaves and stems of plants, preventing insects from feeding and disrupting their growth cycle. Foreman’s General Store carries two brands of neem oil drench: Southern Ag and Monterey Garden Insect Spray.
In conclusion, the appearance of cankerworms should not send homeowners and gardeners into a panic, as the infestation can be managed. Foreman’s General Store offers several safe and effective options for managing cankerworms, including Trichogramma wasps, systemic insecticide, and neem oil drench. As always, customers should be mindful of the environment, follow manufacturer instructions when handling chemicals, and consider using organic products whenever possible. With these tips and tools, we can tackle cankerworms while retaining a healthy and vibrant garden.