How to Rid My Pepper and Tomato Plant of Hornworms

Hornworms are one of the most destructive garden pests, especially for peppers and tomatoes. These caterpillars are voracious feeders and can quickly decimate entire plants if left untreated. However, there are several effective control measures that you can take to rid your pepper and tomato plants of hornworms.

Identify the Hornworms

The first step in controlling hornworms is to identify them correctly. Hornworms are green caterpillars with small "horns" on their backs. They can grow up to five inches in length and have distinctive white diagonal stripes on their body. Hornworms are often found on the branches of pepper and tomato plants, and they feed on the leaves and fruit of the plant.

Handpicking

One of the most effective ways to control a small infestation of hornworms is to handpick them off your plants. You can use gloves or a small trowel to remove the caterpillars from your plants gently. Be sure always to check under the leaves and branches of your plants as these are the spots where hornworms commonly hang out. Dispose of the hornworms in a bucket of soapy water, or put them far away from the garden.

Beneficial Insects

Bringing in beneficial insects is another effective way to control hornworms. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural enemies of hornworms and can help to control them in your garden. These beneficial insects can be purchased online or from your local nursery. Release them near your pepper and tomato plants, and they will feast on the hornworms while leaving your plants unharmed.

Bt Spray

Bt spray is a form of biological control that targets hornworms specifically. Bt, or Bacillus thuringiensis, is a bacteria that goes by many different names such as Dipel Dust, Safer Caterpillar Killer, Thuricide, and others. When the hornworms ingest the bacteria, it creates toxins within their stomach, causing them to stop eating and die within a few days. Bt spray is organic, safe, and efficient. Spray the solution directly on your pepper and tomato plants in the evening after the bees are less active and not affected.

Neem Oil

Neem oil spray is another effective way to control hornworms. Neem oil is extracted from the seeds of the neem tree and works as a natural insecticide by disrupting the feeding and mating patterns of pests. To make the spray, mix one tablespoon of neem oil with one gallon of water and add a few drops of dish soap to help it stick on the plant's foliage. Spray the solution on your pepper and tomato plants every five to seven days for best results.

Conclusion

Controlling hornworms in your pepper and tomato plants require a combination of different control methods. Handpicking, beneficial insects, Bt spray, and neem oil are all highly effective methods to manage and prevent hornworms from destroying your garden. Regular inspection and monitoring of your pepper and tomato plants can detect hornworms early and help you implement the control measures before they cause significant damage.