BTK for Control of the Spongy Moth

Описание: The non-native, highly invasive moth species Spongy Moth (previously referred to as the Gypsy Moth and the LDD Moth or Lymantria dispar dispar) are very destructive during the caterpillar stage, ravaging tree and plant leaves.🐛 As adults, they only live to reproduce; they don’t eat, they don’t pollinate flowers, and they die after fertilizing and laying their eggs.
Originating from Europe, the Spongy Moth was first discovered in Ontario in 1969 and their preferred host trees include oak, birch, aspen, sugar maple, beech, and even eastern white pine and Colorado blue spruce. 🌳

Ways to combat the increasing population include scraping egg sacs off trees whenever you see them, hand picking caterpillars off trees, burlap banding around tree trunks, Spongy Moth traps, and for larger infestations you can apply BTK.

For larger infestations of Spongy Moths, BTK can be applied to the foliage when caterpillars are beginning to feed. Mix and apply according to the package directions. The caterpillars must ingest the product for it to be effective. Once dissolved in the alkaline gut environment of the caterpillars, it will lead to death. This process can take days but the insect stops eating soon after ingestion.

BTK effects ALL caterpillars and is non-discriminatory, so try to avoid pollinator friendly areas and plants if and when possible during application.🐝

Heeman's greenhouse is located in London, ON! We hope to see you in the greenhouse soon.

20422 Nissouri Rd.
Thorndale, ON N0M 2P0
519.461.1416 | https://www.heeman.ca
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Want to learn more about LDD Moths and other pests? Check out our Garden Guide at Heemans -
Spongy Moth Prevention: https://www.heeman.ca/garden-guides/g...
How to Make Organic Pesticide at Home: https://www.heeman.ca/garden-guides/h...
Dealing with Common Garden Pests: https://www.heeman.ca/garden-guides/g...

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