Remember to take the bands down by July 1 so the tree isn't injured by the tape or wrap. Stake up a 2-foot high plastic sheet and weigh down the edge with sand or dirt. You may want to weigh down the flaps so caterpillars don't get flipped into the garden when the wind blows. Under some circumstances, you may want to spray an insecticide to protect gardens and trees at risk. The production from fruit trees, raspberries, strawberries and other fruit and vegetable crops will be greatly reduced or lost if the plants suffer moderate defoliation.
Insecticides have restrictions as to which plants and sites where they can legally be applied.
If applying to shade and ornamental trees, the label should say it is for use on shade and ornamental trees. However, Bt products are slightly slower to act since they must be eaten by caterpillars before they take effect. It is most effective on FTC when the caterpillars are small. Please read and follow label directions. FTC moths are attracted to lights during the nights in early July.