What is that caterpillar on my oak tree? Pam D. Atascadero
By Tami Reece UCCE Master Gardener
The
California oakworm is probably your pest. The life cycle of an oak
moth starts with an egg, which hatches and develops into a larva
(caterpillar); eventually transforming into a chrysalis (pupa), then,
finally fully maturing into the adult California oakworm moth. The
oakworm is a small light green caterpillar with a dark brown head and
dark stripes on their sides. The oakworm moth may be spotted during
the summer months.
The
California oakworm’s favorite food of choice is a California
native, the coast live oak. Don't panic! Healthy oaks will tolerate
oakworm feeding and even defoliation without serious harm. Therefore,
treatment to control oakworms is usually not recommended. Control
oakworms and protect oaks with an integrated pest management (IPM)
program that relies primarily on the conservation of natural enemies
and good cultural practices. Yellow jackets, garden spiders and birds
are good predators of oakworms. Providing a birdbath may help
increase the presence of birds in your yard. For more information and
photos of the California oakworm moth and larva, visit the UC IPM
website - http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7422.html.
Be sure that your tree is healthy and can withstand an
oakworm outbreak by considering the cultural care of your tree.
Mature oaks do not need irrigation, unless supplemental irrigation
is needed during a time of winter drought. Oak trees can be adversely
affected by well-watered lawns, compacted soil, or damaged roots
caused by construction or nearby pavement. UC ANR offers a free
download of their publication "Living Among the Oaks", a
guide to keeping your oak trees healthy so they can thrive for
generations to come.
Save the Date!!! Saturday September 6, 2014, 10:00 to 2:00, is the UCCE Master Gardeners 8th Annual Tomato Extravaganza. Tomato and basil tasting, guest speakers and lots of fun in the garden! See you there!!!
CATERPILLAR BY CHRISTINA ROSSETTI BROWN AND FURRY CATERPILLAR IN
CATERPILLAR DEALERS USED PARTS ASSOCIATION “SECOND LIFE” 33RD
CATERPILLAR FOUNDATION US FACILITY GRANT APPLICATION THE CATERPILLAR
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