Q: I wrote earlier in the week about those pesky bugs that attack our Texas mountain laurel every year, and they have already started attacking this year. I am including a photo of the critter so that you might recommend something specific to get rid of them. There are too many to hand pick and they move really fast when trying to get away.
A:Β The critter isΒ Uresiphita reversalis, aka the genista caterpillar. They typically feed on new growth at the ends of branches on Texas mountain laurel.Β I recommend a spray of Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) where they are feeding. Bt is a naturally occurring soil bacterium that causes disease in certain insects. Bt is considered ideal for pest management because of its specificity and because of its lack of toxicity to humans or the natural enemies of many plant pests. There are different strains of Bt, each with specific toxicity to particular types of insects so be sure to choose the strain that is labeled for caterpillar pests.
Peter L. Warren is the Forest Health Program Coordinator for the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management. Questions, photos and videos may be emailed toΒ tucsongardensage@gmail.com
