How to Keep Those Green Horn Worms off Tomato Plants

If you've ever grown tomato plants, you know how delicious they are when they finally start producing fruit. Unfortunately, green horn worms have a way of getting to the plants before you do. These pesky critters can strip your plant of its leaves, leaving it barren and unable to produce. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to keep the green horn worms away.

Start With Prevention

The best way to avoid a horn worm problem is to take precautions before they have a chance to take hold. Cover your tomato plants with a row cover, which will prevent the moths that lay the eggs from accessing the plants. If you don't have a row cover, you can use lightweight fabric or mesh to create a barrier over the plants. Make sure the cover is anchored down so the wind doesn't blow it away. If you are growing tomato plants in a container, consider placing it on your patio or balcony where the wind is less likely to cause issues.

Chemical Solutions

If you prefer to use chemicals to keep the green horn worms at bay, there are several insecticides you can use. These include Bacillus thuringiensis, which is a natural pesticide that is used to control a variety of insects. Bacillus thuringiensis comes in spray or powder form and can be found at most gardening or home supply stores. You can also use insecticidal soap, which will kill the worms while causing minimal harm to the plants. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label and apply the pesticide only when the worms are present.

Biological Control

Another solution is to use biological control methods. There are several natural predators that eat green horn worms, including birds and insects like ladybugs and praying mantises. You can attract these predators to your garden by planting flowers or herbs that they find attractive. You can also purchase beneficial insects and release them into your garden. These insects will eat the horn worms and help keep the population in check.

Handpicking

If you only have a few horn worms, you can try handpicking them off the plant. Wear gloves and carefully remove the worms and their eggs from the plant. You can also place a drop cloth underneath the plant and shake it, which will cause the worms to fall off. Once you've removed the worms, dispose of them in a sealed bag or container so they don't return to your garden.

Conclusion

Keeping green horn worms off your tomato plants can feel like a challenge, but with the right steps, it can be done. Whether you choose to use preventative measures or a more aggressive approach, remember to follow the instructions carefully and keep an eye on your plants. With a little persistence, you can enjoy delicious tomatoes without worrying about pesky green horn worms.