Where does Tomato Hornworm Hide in the Plant?

Tomato hornworms are large, green caterpillars that can be found feeding on tomatoes, peppers, and other members of the nightshade family. They can cause serious damage to plants, by eating the leaves, flowers, and fruits, and can be difficult to control. One of the reasons they can be challenging to manage is because of their ability to hide in the plant. In this article, we'll look at where tomato hornworms like to hide and how to find them.

Leaves

One of the most common places you will find tomato hornworms hiding is on the leaves of the plant. These caterpillars are expert at blending in with the plant's foliage, making them difficult to spot. The caterpillars prefer the larger leaves of the tomato plant, so if you're having trouble finding them, start with the big leaves at the bottom of the plant and work your way up.

Stems

The tomato hornworm will also hide on the stems of the plant. They will wrap themselves around the stem and hold on with their prolegs, making them difficult to spot. Check the stems carefully, looking for any movement or discoloration, which may be a sign of the caterpillar's presence.

Underground

Believe it or not, tomato hornworms may also hide underground. These caterpillars can burrow into the soil near the plant, making it challenging to find them. If you notice any wilted or damaged leaves, dig around the plant's base, checking the soil for the caterpillar's presence.

In the Fruit

Tomato hornworms are also known to hide inside the fruit of tomato plants. The green caterpillars will burrow into the tomato and feed on the flesh, making it challenging to detect them until you harvest the fruit. If you notice any tomatoes with a soft or mushy area, cut it open to see if there are any caterpillars inside.

In Conclusion

Tomato hornworms are tricky pests to manage, but by knowing where they hide, you can take the necessary steps to control them. To find them, look on the leaves and stems of the plant, check the soil around the plant's base, and inspect the fruit for any discoloration or soft areas. By doing so, you will help protect your tomato plants from these voracious eaters and ensure a healthy harvest.