Observation of the complete life history requires six to eight weeks. Plan The Experiment Unlike other moth species, the domestic silk moth passes the winter months in the egg stage where it remains dormant while in cold storage. Rearing the domestic silk moth is practical during the spring and summer months when fresh mulberry leaves are readily available. Varying by climate and latitude, order eggs early and schedule delivery for March through August.
Eggs usually hatch within ten days of delivery.
Secure Food Supply Make certain that fresh mulberry leaves are available to feed the newly hatched silkworms. A mulberry tree 30 feet in height or two large mulberry bushes 6 feet in diameter provide ample forage for one-hundred larvae, without causing harm to the plants. Some literature indicates it is possible to temporarily feed silkworms with the leaves of lettuce or Osage Orange. Domestic silk moth larvae require mulberry leaves to develop properly, mature and spin satisfactory cocoons. Avoid substituting the diet, even for one feeding, for best results.