Bagworms in Southern Maryland

Bagworms-in-Southern-Maryland

What Are Bagworms?

Bagworms are not only a single species. They comprise the larval stage of over one thousand different moth species. The name bagworm comes from the egg sac they start their life in.

The bagworm lifecycle includes a stage where the flightless adult female lays all its eggs during the year. As many of them can do this at the same time, you can end up with many of these “bags” on the underside of your tree.

When the eggs hatch, these bags release hundreds of larvae, and with a large infestation, they can cause a large amount of leaf damage. If not stopped, bagworms can spread fast enough that their larvae will decimate your trees.

Where Are Bagworms Found?

Bagworms exist all over the eastern United States. They are a native species to the area and extend far north to Michigan. This widespread blight means they are impossible to eradicate.

You can find examples of bagworm species on many different types of evergreen trees, delicious trees, and shrubs:

  • Arborvitae
  • Cedar
  • Elm
  • Hawthorn
  • Juniper
  • Ligustrum
  • Maple
  • Pine
  • Oak
  • Viburnum
  • Willow

Signs of Bagworms

The most obvious signs of bagworms are threefold:

First of all, you might notice the “bags” of bagworms throughout the year. These egg sacs are what contain the eggs and larvae of the moths as they develop.

Second, in the spring the caterpillars that have grown from larvae will start to disperse through the foliage. They do this by spinning strands of silk and letting the wind move them around. They are easy to see as the strings of silk and caterpillars are visible.

Then, as the caterpillars grow, they will start to feed. Devoured trees are the final obvious sign of a bagworm problem.

How to Treat Bagworms

Controlling bagworms in your garden is possible with insecticide chemicals. You can make use of trunk injections to make a tree un-appetizing to the creatures. Or you can spray the canopy when you see the bags themselves with similar insecticides.

Hiring a Professional

Now you understand the dangers of bagworms and how to deal with them, you might want to get started. Though, if you worry about doing a good and effective job you may want to call in a professional.

Our people are ready to talk to you about whatever you need. You only need to send us a message and we will be able to inform you about your next steps. So, get in contact now.

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