How to Find Hornworms on Tomato Plants

One of the greatest challenges faced by tomato growers is managing the invasion of pests like hornworms. These destructive caterpillars can devour tomato plants in a matter of days if not kept under control. However, effectively controlling the hornworm population requires you to find them in the first place. In this guide, we’ll show you how to find hornworms on tomato plants.

Look for Damage to the Leaves and Stems

One of the easiest ways to identify a hornworm infestation is to inspect the tomato plant for any signs of damage to the leaves and stems. Since hornworms feed heavily on the leaves and stems of the plant, they leave behind large, irregular holes on the foliage. You may also find frass, or black droppings, around the damaged areas. Use a magnifying glass to inspect the undersides of the leaves, where the hornworms are more likely to be found.

Check for Eggs and Cocoons

Another way to detect hornworms is to look for their eggs and cocoons. Hornworm moths typically lay their eggs on the surface of the leaves, and the eggs are small and tear-shaped. You can typically find them in clusters on the undersides of the leaves. Once the eggs hatch and the caterpillars mature, they spin a cocoon, which is usually found on the plant's branches. These cocoons can be difficult to spot, but they are a clear indication that there are hornworms present on the plant.

Look for the Hornworms Themselves

A more direct way to locate hornworms is to look for the caterpillars themselves. Despite their large size, hornworms can still be challenging to spot on the plant, because they are typically green and blend in with the foliage. However, they're easy to recognize once you know what to look for. Hornworms are large and plump with stripes on their sides and a characteristic horn, which is where they get their name from. To find them, start from the tops of the plant and work your way down, checking each stem and leaf as you go along.

Use Pheromone Traps

If you're struggling to find hornworms on your tomato plants, another option is to use pheromone traps. These traps are designed to attract and capture adult hornworm moths, reducing the number of eggs they lay on your plants. The traps use a specific scent that mimics the pheromones released by female hornworm moths to attract males. Place the traps on the perimeters of your garden to trap the moths before they can lay their eggs on the plants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, controlling hornworm populations requires early detection and proper management. By regularly inspecting your tomato plants for damage, eggs, cocoons, and the caterpillars themselves, you'll be able to catch the problem before it worsens. Additionally, using pheromone traps can help reduce the population of adult hornworms, thus reducing the number of eggs that are laid on your plants. By combining these strategies, you'll be able to manage hornworms effectively and protect your tomato plants from their destructive feeding habits.