Have you heard or seen the box moth caterpillar? It is a relatively recent problem in the UK, but devastating if your plant gets infected.
Box Blight
Box blight has been a problem in the UK for a number of years, a fungus infection that causes die back and bare patches on box bushes. It can be a particular problem for box topiary. Blight is more common in wet periods, and can be difficult to control. The RHS has information to help you manage this.
You may wish to consider removing the plant and replacing with a different evergreen shrub. Options include Privet and Yew. Talk to Chopwell about removing an infected box plant and your options to replace it.
Box Moth Caterpillar
The box moth is a relatively recent problem in the UK and are active between May and October. The RHS is asking the public to take a short survey if you have an infestation so they can map the spread.
Box moth can be confused with box blight, with brown patches on the box bush, but up close you can see the caterpillars and that they have eaten the leaves as well as covering the bush with what looks like cobwebs.
How to treat a Box Moth Caterpillar attack
- Remove all the caterpillars from the plant – this is easier said than done as box plants are dense and the caterpillars hide in the centre of the plant.
- Use biological control such as nematodes to inhibit the life cycle of the moth
- Feed the plant, to help it get energy to recover
It may also be useful to spray the plant with a solution of soft soap to make the leaves slippery, so the caterpillars and eggs fall off the plant.
Infestations of insects and bugs that overwhelm plants can be distressing both for the plant and you. No one wants unsightly struggling plants in the garden. If you are unsure if your tree or shrub is infested, spray it with water or soft soap solution then give Chopwell a call, our friendly team can diagnose issues and offer solutions.
