If you have oak trees on your property, you may occasionally find caterpillars crawling on the trunk or leaves. These caterpillars are the larvae of moths and can cause damage to your oak trees if left unchecked. While there are chemical treatments available to kill caterpillars, you may prefer a more natural approach. Here are some tips for getting rid of oak caterpillars naturally:
1. Prune infested branches. If you see caterpillars crawling on the leaves or branches of your oak tree, prune away those sections and dispose of them in a plastic bag. This will remove the catering population and prevent them from doing further damage.
2. Use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT). BT is a bacteria that specifically targets caterpillars and other insects that feed on plants. It’s available in both liquid and powder form, and can be sprayed directly onto infested areas.
3. Introduce beneficial insects. Ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps all eat caterpillars, so releasing them into your garden will help keep the population under control. You can purchase these insects online or at many garden stores.
4.. Plant Caterpillar-Repellent Plants . Some plants emit chemicals that deter caterpillars from feeding on them . Examples include tansy , wormwood , rue ,and garlic . Planting these around your oak tree can help keep caterpillars away .
5.. Apply Diatomaceous Earth . Diatomaceous earth is a powder made from fossilized algae . It’s sharp edges cut through the exoskeletons of pests like caterpillars , killing them within 48 hours . Be sure to use food -grade diatomaceous earth for this purpose , as it’s the only type that’s safe for humans and animals .
Taking preventive measures like these will ensure that oak caterpillars don’t become a problem in your yard or garden