Overview of hummingbird moth caterpillars

Hummingbird moth caterpillars are one of the most interesting insects found in North America. They are a type of sphinx moth caterpillar or hawk moth that is commonly found in gardens and on tomato plants. These caterpillars have a distinctive green color and tend to be more active during the evening.

What hummingbird moth caterpillars eat

Hummingbird moth caterpillars feed on a wide range of plants, including tomato plants. Tomato plants are a staple food for these caterpillars and they can cause significant damage to the plants if left unchecked.

The caterpillars tend to feed on leaves, stems, and fruit of the tomato plants. They are particularly fond of new growth and can quickly consume entire plants if they are not controlled. Tomato plant leaves that have been fed on by the caterpillars will become ragged and have irregular holes in them.

Controlling hummingbird moth caterpillars on tomato plants

If you have a hummingbird moth caterpillar infestation on your tomato plants, there are several things you can do to control them:

Handpicking: You can physically remove the caterpillars from your tomato plants. Check your plants daily and remove any caterpillars that you find. Drop them into a bucket of soapy water to kill them.

Bird feeders: Hummingbirds are natural predators of the moths that lay eggs that hatch into these caterpillars. By placing hummingbird feeders near your garden, you can attract the birds to your property and help control the moth population.

Neem oil: Neem oil is a natural insecticide that is effective at controlling caterpillars. Apply the oil to your tomato plants according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Conclusion

Hummingbird moth caterpillars can be a nuisance for tomato growers. These creatures can do significant damage to plants if they are left unchecked. However, by taking appropriate measures, you can control the population and prevent them from causing excessive damage to your tomato plants. Remember, the key to controlling hummingbird moth caterpillars is to act quickly and consistently.