Common Garden Pests 101: Dealing With Tomato Worms

Tomato hornworms are one of the most common pests that can wreak havoc on your garden plants, especially tomatoes.

These large, green caterpillars can quickly strip a plant of its leaves and fruit, leaving you with a decimated crop.

But fear not, there are several effective ways to control and get rid of tomato hornworms in your garden – read on below!

What Are Tomato Worms?

Tomato hornworms, also commonly known as tomato worms, are large, green caterpillars with white diagonal stripes and a horn-like projection on their rear end. They can grow up to 4 inches long and are often difficult to spot because of their color and size.

Identifying Tomato Hornworms

Look for chewed leaves, defoliation, and frass (worm poop) on and around your tomato plants as these are telltale signs of hornworms. The pest itself is particularly easier to see and handpick from your garden than other common garden pests like thrips, aphids, or spider mites.

Control Measures

Handpicking

If you only have a few hornworms, handpicking is an effective control measure. Look for the caterpillars on the undersides of leaves and remove them by hand. Be sure to wear gloves as hornworms have spines that can cause irritation.

Natural predators

Encourage natural predators such as birds, wasps, and parasitic flies by planting flowers and herbs in your garden. These beneficial insects will help control hornworm populations.

Bt spray

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a naturally occurring soil bacteria that can be sprayed on your tomato plants to control hornworms. Bt works by poisoning the caterpillars’ digestive systems, causing them to stop feeding and eventually die.

Neem oil

Neem oil is an organic insecticide that can be sprayed on your plants to control a variety of pests, including hornworms. It works by disrupting the insects’ hormonal balance, making it difficult for them to feed and reproduce.

Companion planting

Plant herbs such as basil, parsley, and dill near your tomato plants to repel hornworms. These herbs also attract natural predators that will help control the pest population.

Preventative Measures

Learn all about the most effective preventative measures for tomato worms, below:

Crop rotation

Rotate your tomato plants each year to prevent hornworms and other pests from building up in the soil.

Garden clean up

Remove any plant debris or weeds from your garden area as they can harbor pests and diseases.

Row covers

Cover your tomato plants with a lightweight fabric row cover to prevent adult moths from laying eggs on your plants.

A Final Word About Dealing With Tomato Worms

In conclusion, tomato hornworms can cause significant damage to tomato plants, but with the proper identification and control methods, these little green wormy buggers can be managed effectively.

By regularly inspecting your tomato plants for signs of infestation, such as missing leaves or droppings, you can catch and remove hornworms before they cause too much damage. Natural control methods such as handpicking, beneficial insect release, and planting companion plants can also be effective in managing hornworms.

Chemical treatments should be used as a last resort and with caution, as they can harm beneficial insects and other wildlife.

By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can ensure healthy and productive tomato plants in your garden.

FAQs:

What are tomato hornworms, and how do they affect my tomato plants?

Tomato hornworms are large, green caterpillars that can grow up to 4 inches in length. They feed on the leaves, stems, and fruits of tomato plants, causing significant damage to the plant and reducing its yield.

How can I identify if my tomato plants are infested with hornworms?

You can identify hornworms by their large size and distinct markings. They have eight V-shaped marks on their sides and a horn-like protrusion on their tail end. Look for chewed leaves, stems, and missing fruits to spot an infestation.

What damage can hornworms cause to my tomato plants?

Hornworms can cause significant damage to tomato plants, including defoliation and fruit loss. They can consume large portions of the plant and leave behind large, black droppings, which can also damage the fruit.

What are some natural ways to control hornworms in my garden?

Natural ways to control hornworms include handpicking the caterpillars off the plant, introducing natural predators such as braconid wasps, planting companion plants like marigolds and basil, and using organic pesticides like neem oil and pyrethrin.

Are there any chemical treatments for hornworm infestations?

Yes, there are chemical treatments available for hornworm infestations, including insecticides like carbaryl and spinosad. However, it’s important to use these chemicals carefully and follow the instructions on the label to prevent harm to beneficial insects and pollinators.

How can I prevent future hornworm infestations in my tomato plants?

To prevent future hornworm infestations, rotate your tomato crops each year, remove any weeds or plant debris from the garden, and use row covers to prevent adult moths from laying eggs on your tomato plants.

When should I seek professional help for hornworm infestations?

If your tomato plants are heavily infested with hornworms and natural or chemical methods are not effective, it may be time to seek professional help. A professional pest control service can offer more powerful and targeted solutions to eliminate the infestation.

Suggested Reading: Unwelcome Guests: Beginner’s Guide to Common Garden Pests