Pests

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Box Tree Caterpillar

Box Tree Caterpillar

Has been a pest on Box plants for 5 years in the UK, but it has only arrived in Marlow recently, as it progresses out from central London. 

It is the caterpillar of a small night flying moth that will strip all the foliage within 2 weeks if not treated. Defoliated plants may recover but often die immediately.

Treatment is by spraying a protective insecticide in advance of the first eggs hatching which occurs in early May, or by spraying when the caterpillars are first observed. There can be several generations per year which means a long period of risk, the caterpillars and pupae overwinter in webbing on plants. 

Synthetic Pyrethroid sprays are very effective and give 4- 6 weeks of protection.

Biological sprays are also available that are specific for caterpillars, these sprays are a fresh product that work on contact and must be applied when caterpillars are present and within 2 weeks of delivery.

More information can be found here.