Introduction

Have you ever noticed green caterpillars on your tomato plants? If yes, you might be wondering what they are and whether they are harmful to your plants. In this article, we will discuss what the green caterpillar on your tomato plant is and how to deal with them.

What is the green caterpillar on my tomato plant?

The green caterpillar you see on your tomato plant is most likely the larvae of the tomato hornworm. Tomato hornworms are the most common pests that attack tomato plants, and they are widespread across North America. They are named after the horn-like protrusions on their posterior end, which are harmless, and can be easily distinguished from other caterpillars.

What does the tomato hornworm caterpillar look like?

The tomato hornworm caterpillar is a large caterpillar that can grow up to four inches in length. They have a green body with white stripes running along the length of their body. The caterpillar also has a black or reddish horn-like protrusion at the end of their body. The adult moth that emerges from the caterpillar is a large, brownish-gray moth with white spots on its wings.

Are tomato hornworm caterpillars harmful to tomato plants?

Yes, tomato hornworm caterpillars are harmful to tomato plants. They are voracious feeders and can eat the leaves, stems, and fruit of the tomato plant. If left unchecked, a few caterpillars can cause significant damage to the plant, resulting in reduced fruit yield.

How to control tomato hornworm caterpillars?

There are several ways to control tomato hornworm caterpillars, including:

1. Handpicking: Tomato hornworm caterpillars are easy to spot due to their size and green color. You can handpick them and drop them into a bucket of soapy water.

2. Use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT): BT is a biological pesticide that can be used to control tomato hornworms. It is a bacterium that produces a toxin that kills the caterpillars. BT is safe for humans, animals, and beneficial insects.

3. Plant companion crops: Companion planting can help control tomato hornworms. Planting herbs like basil or flowers like marigold can attract natural predators like braconid wasps that feed on tomato hornworm caterpillars.

4. Use row covers: Row covers can be used to prevent adult moths from laying eggs on the tomato plants. This method is most effective when used early in the season.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the green caterpillar you see on your tomato plant is likely the tomato hornworm caterpillar. While they are harmful to tomato plants, there are several ways to control them. Handpicking, using BT, planting companion crops, and using row covers are effective ways of controlling tomato hornworm caterpillars. By using these methods, you can protect your tomato plants and enjoy a bountiful harvest.