caterpillars on hornbeam

miss_bucket · Rank attained: Hazel Tree Joined: 17 Aug 2009 Posts: 2

Hi,

We have a few hornbeam trees and they've recently shown some caterpillars - attached a photo - what are they and how can we treat the trees?

Thanks,
Miss_bucket

James Kilkelly · Posted: Mon Sep 21, 2009 1:15 pm Post subject:

Cheap and cheerful option..... shake the branches until the caterpillars drop onto the ground then sweep them up with a dustpan and brush.

If you wish to you can spray with Liquid derris to clear them as well, if you can still find it available.

You may be able to source some caterpillar spray here..... Spray

Homemade garlic spray is another option if you can stand the smell. Laughing

Chop 3oz (75g) of garlic and mix with two teaspoons full of mineral oil. Leave for twenty-four hours to let the garlic soak in to the oil. After this time, add a pint (575ml) of water into which two teaspoons of soft soap have been added. Stir thoroughly and strain into plastic containers to store. To use, dissolve one part of this mixture to twenty parts of water. Spray this on to the leaves of affected vegetables and also treat the soil around the plants.

Thanks to inishindie on this thread for the recipe.... http://www.gardenplansireland.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=5061#5061

medieval knievel · Posted: Mon Sep 21, 2009 9:03 pm Post subject:

if it's just that bunch of caterpillars, might you leave them be? they're not likely to do it an awful lot of damage, and it's not been a good summer for the poor blighters.