Caterpillars
Caterpillars  Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths. Many are major pests but several merely make us curious as to what they are doing. There are many types of caterpillars and they feed in or on a broad array of trees and shrubs. Some are simple leaf feeders and others bore in tips or are leafminers. Most feeding by caterpillars takes place in the later instars as they approach maturity. Small caterpillars are easier to control. There are many variables to be considered. Different species eat different foods of varying nutritional value. Also you need to know exactly which instar the caterpillar is in, and how many molts are required to reach adulthood. This can vary between male and female in some insects. How big is the adult moth or butterfly? This is going to determine the ultimate size of the caterpillar. A small adult means a small caterpillar. Also adaptations to climate and overwintering strategies can come into play. Some species feed ravenously in an effort to gain size quickly before cold weather sets in and overwinter as pupae, adults, or eggs. Other caterpillars feed slowly because they intend to overwinter as caterpillars. Some species rest during the day to avoid predators and only feed at night. Others feed during the day when temperatures aid their metabolism. Susceptible Plants- A broad range of tress, shrubs, fruits and vegetables
Symptoms – Vary by plant and caterpillar type. See sawflies, cabbage caterpillars, codling moth, and cutworm, for more specific information. Caterpillars remove plant parts during feeding, creating irregular or rounded holes in leaves and flower buds. Frass (fecal deposits) are typically present near damaged tissues. Herbaceous perennials are susceptible to a variety of caterpillar types.
Prevention and Control- Remove weeds and plant debris from adjacent areas. Insecticidal Control - Applying an insecticide derived from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki is effective on young larvae feeding on plant leaves. Contact insecticides are also effective. Scout regularly using yellow sticky cards, which attract the adult catepillars. PyGanic® Crop Protection Biological Control- Ladybug Beetles, Hippodamia convergens, Green Lacewing Chrysoperla
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