Pests

Contents

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 last year 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 immediately caterpillars are seen. Several generations per year mean a long period of risk. 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.