A simple homemade pesticide can be used that is safe for the tree and environmentally friendly when mixed and applied properly:
1. Mix 2 tbsp of original dawn soap and 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a 1 L spray bottle with warm water.
2. Spray liberally directly on caterpillars, this mixture prevents oxygen intake through the skin. The best time to do this is early morning when they are still grouped together. Try not to spray the leaves if possible as it may cause scorching when combined with the sun.
• During the winter months, be on the lookout for Tent Caterpillar egg masses. These can be pruned off your tree and disposed of with your household waste. A tree free of egg masses will likely be free of caterpillars the following spring.
A one litre bottle ? Some of my trees are 30' high
After several seasons I admit I've lost the fight, attempting to kill them is proving futile.
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