How to Kill Tomato Plant Worms

Tomato plant worms, also known as tomato fruitworms or corn earworms, are pests that can cause significant damage to tomato plants. These caterpillars will eat through leaves, flowers, and the fruit of the tomato plant. If left unchecked, they can significantly reduce the yield of your tomato plants. Here are some methods to kill tomato plant worms:

Handpicking

The easiest and most practical way to get rid of tomato plant worms is to handpick them off the plants. Check your tomato plants regularly and look for small holes in the leaves or fruit, which are often a sign of the worms' presence. Wear gloves and remove the worms by hand, placing them into a bucket of warm, soapy water to kill them.

Natural Predators

Encouraging natural predators is another effective way to kill tomato plant worms. Birds, wasps, and some species of beetles feed on these pests. To attract these beneficial insects to your garden, plant flowers such as marigolds, calendula, and dill. You can also use companion planting to attract beneficial insects, such as planting basil near your tomato plants.

Traps

Traps are a popular and effective way to control tomato plant worms. You can make your own traps by cutting an empty milk jug in half, filling it with water and a tablespoon of dish soap, and hanging it near your tomato plants. The worms will be attracted to the jug, fall in, and drown. Alternatively, you can purchase pheromone traps that use chemicals to attract and trap the worms.

Organic Pesticides

If you have a severe infestation of tomato plant worms, you may need to use an organic pesticide to control them. Bacillus thuringiensis, or Bt, is a bacteria that produces a toxin that is lethal to tomato plant worms. Bt is non-toxic to humans and other beneficial insects, making it a safe and effective choice for organic gardening. Spray your tomato plants with Bt every few days until the worms are eradicated.

Conclusion

Tomato plant worms can be a significant problem for gardeners, but there are several effective methods for killing them. Handpicking, natural predators, traps, and organic pesticides are all viable options for controlling these pests. By taking a proactive approach and monitoring your tomato plants regularly, you can prevent and manage infestations of tomato plant worms and enjoy a healthy, bountiful tomato harvest.