Tussock Moth Control: How To Get Rid of Tussock Moth Caterpillars

This page is a general Tussock Moth Caterpillar control guide. Using the products and methods suggested you will get control of Tussock Moths. Follow this guide and use the recommended products and we guarantee 100% control of Tussock Moth Caterpillars.

A damaging species of moth that is usually known for being a forest problem, the Tussock Moth is increasing its profile on residential landscapes and gardens. The moth is dull-colored as an adult, but its hairy caterpillar phase of development is known for defoliating small trees and shrubs if left unchecked.

Tussock Moths appear in large numbers in the spring and summer months and can grow up to an inch and a half long. They are also known to build cocoons on homes, boats, picnic tables and other outdoor items that can be tough to remove.

If you are seeing Tussock Moths around in your home, the following DIY guide will show you how to get rid of the pest with the help of our expert advice and professional product recommendations.

Identification

Before you can carry on with a treatment program, you need to be certain you are dealing with Tussock Moths. Tussock Moths are most recognizable when they are caterpillars, of which there are many different kinds.

• Among prominent tussock moth species in the US, most feature two clumps of hair that jut from the head end, looking like antennae; one clump of hair jutting from the rear, looking like a tail; and four dense tufts or tussocks of fur along the caterpillar's back.
• Tussock moth caterpillars hatch as tiny worms, which then grow to be 1 and a half inches in length once they are fully matured.
• They come in various brilliant colors like yellow, orange and black.
• When crawling, the Tussock Moth Caterpillar is able to stand vertically, which helps it to move from leaf to leaf to feed.
• Once they are fully grown they will look like other many other moth species with brown markings and patterns. Male moths will have long wings and are capable of flight, whereas the females will have shorter, stumpier wings rendering them unable to fly. 

Inspection

After you have confirmation of Tussock Moths, you need to inspect the area to see where they are most active. Determine the size and severity of the infestation to help you in your treatment approach. 

Where To Inspect

Tussock Moths can be found in garden areas, shrubs, and trees. Moth of the time they are found in forest areas but more and more have migrated to residential areas due to the attraction of the plants that may be growing on a landscape.

What To Look For

You're looking for adult Tussock moths, the Tussock Moth caterpillars and any signs of their presence such as leaf and plant damage. If you are able to locate them, be careful and don't touch them. Their bright, vibrant colors are usually a signal that they are dangerous and shouldn't be handled. Tussock Moth Caterpillars go into pupation in cocoons that are attached to tree branches, trunks and the sides of homes, so watch out for those as well.

Treatment

After inspecting the areas where you have discovered the Tussock Moth, you can move forward with treatment. Remember to read all product labels and follow the application instructions on these labels and stay safe by wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).

The best method for controlling Tussock Moths is via chemical control. Our top recommendation for controlling them and stopping the destruction of your plants is Supreme IT Insecticide. It is safe and easy to use, labeled for various leaf-feeding caterpillars and is affordably priced.

Step 1 - Apply Supreme IT Insecticide To Yard and Ornamentals

Supreme IT is a broad-spectrum insecticide that is labeled for treating over 70 different pests, including leaf-feeding caterpillars like that of the Tussock Moth. It also has a long residual effect that can continue to control pests for up to 90 days after application. Calculate the square footage (length x width (in feet) = square footage) of your lawn to determine how much Supreme IT you need to cover the entire area. 0.125 to .25 oz. of Supreme IT with a gallon of water will treat 1,000 square feet.

Mix the product in a hand-pump sprayer and spray Supreme IT over your entire yard and garden via fan spray to get nice uniform coverage. If you have a large yard, it may be better to use a hose-end sprayer. You will want to use enough water to evenly treat the area -- up to 10 gallons.

Spray your whole lawn starting from the back to the front. Also, spray ornamentals and landscaping, making sure to only focus on non-edible vegetation areas. Make sure not to forget to spray the underside of leaves as these can be where Tussock Moth Caterpillars hide out of view.

Prevention

Once you have successfully eliminated the infestation of Tussock Moth Caterpillars, you need to take measures to ensure they don't infest again. Monitor your lawn closely during the spring and summer seasons to check if they have re-emerged. If you spot any pupation cocoons, remove them with the help of tweezers.

Finally, Supreme IT Insecticide quarterly to prevent potential reinvasion. Supreme IT has a residual effect that can last up to 90 days so it can help to fend off caterpillars during their active seasons. 

Key Takeaways

• Tussock Moths are a species of pest that is known for having a destructive caterpillar phase. The caterpillar is notorious for defoliating entire small trees and shrubs when there is no intervention.
• To get rid of Tussock Moth Caterpillars, we recommend applying Supreme IT Insecticide to your yard and ornamentals.
• Prevent potential future Tussock Moth infestations by monitoring your yard, removing cocoons and re-applying Supreme IT on a quarterly basis.