Tomato hornworms, with their striking green color and impressive size, are the bane of gardeners. These stealthy pests are masters of disguise, blending seamlessly into the lush foliage of tomato plants. If left unchecked, they can decimate your plants in no time, leaving behind chewed leaves, stripped stems, and even damaged fruits. Don’t worry—this guide will help you manage tomato hornworms effectively, and even includes a fascinating trick to spot them with ease.
What Are Tomato Hornworms?
Tomato hornworms are the larvae of a large moth known as the five-spotted hawk moth (Manduca quinquemaculata).
- Appearance: Bright green with white stripes along their sides and a curved “horn” on their rear end.
- Size: Can grow up to 4 inches long, making them one of the largest caterpillars in North America.
- Diet: These voracious feeders prefer tomato plants but will also attack peppers, eggplants, and potatoes—all members of the nightshade family.
Signs of a Hornworm Infestation
Hornworms are experts at staying hidden, but their destruction is hard to miss:
- Chewed Leaves: Look for large holes or entire leaves missing.
- Stripped Stems: They can quickly defoliate a plant.
- Dark Droppings: Hornworms leave behind pellet-like frass (droppings) on leaves and soil.
- Damaged Fruit: In severe infestations, they will chew through unripe tomatoes.
The Fun Trick to Spot Hidden Hornworms
One of the easiest ways to find these camouflaged pests is by using a black light flashlight:
- Hornworms glow under ultraviolet (UV) light because their bodies contain fluorescent compounds.
- Wait until evening or dusk for better visibility.
- Shine the black light on your tomato plants, and the hornworms will light up like tiny neon signs!
This method is not only effective but also a fun and fascinating way to turn pest control into an adventure.
How to Get Rid of Tomato Hornworms
1. Handpicking
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