What Month Does Hornworms Get on Your Tomato Plants

Tomato plants are a delicious and beloved addition to any garden. However, they are also prone to many pests and diseases that can damage or even kill them. One of the most common pests that affects tomato plants is the hornworm. These large green worms can devour tomato plants and leave them completely barren. But when do these pests typically become a problem? Let's take a closer look at when you can expect hornworms to get on your tomato plants.

Identification of Hornworms

Hornworms are large, fat worms that are typically green in color. They are usually between two and four inches long and are covered in small bumps or spines. They have a distinctive "horn" at the end of their bodies, which is why they are called "hornworms."

If you suspect that your tomato plants have hornworms, check for the following signs:

Eaten leaves or stems

Green worm droppings around the plant

Sightings of the hornworm itself on the plant

Hornworm Life Cycle

Hornworms are the larvae of a moth called the Sphinx moth or the hawk moth. They typically lay their eggs on tomato plants in late spring or early summer. The eggs hatch into small green caterpillars that grow rapidly and begin to feed on the tomato plant's leaves and stems.

As the hornworms grow, they shed their skins several times, becoming larger and more destructive with each molt. Eventually, they reach their full size of around four inches and begin to pupate, spinning a cocoon underground where they will transform into an adult moth.

When Do Hornworms Get on Your Tomato Plants?

In most regions, hornworms become a problem on tomato plants in mid to late summer. This is when the Sphinx moth lays its eggs on the plants, and the eggs hatch into the destructive larvae. In warmer parts of the country, hornworms may appear earlier in the season, while in cooler areas, they may not appear until later in the summer or even early fall.

You can take steps to prevent hornworm damage to your tomato plants by being vigilant and inspecting your plants regularly. Look for the signs of hornworm activity mentioned earlier, and if you find any hornworms, remove them by hand or with a garden tool. You can also use natural predators such as birds or beneficial insects like parasitic wasps to help control hornworm populations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hornworms can become a major problem for tomato plants in mid to late summer. By being vigilant and taking preventative measures, you can keep these destructive pests from ruining your tomato harvest. Inspect your plants regularly, look for signs of hornworm activity, and remove any hornworms that you find. With a little effort, you can keep your tomato plants healthy and productive all season long.