BROWSE HOW TOs

How to Protect Trees From Gypsy Moths

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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If you live in a densely wooded area, chances are you've seen firsthand the devastation gypsy moths can wreak upon trees. If they complete their cycle from larvae to moth, a cycle that begins in mid-spring and peaks in mid-summer, gypsy moths can devour leaves off trees. Sometimes they even strip the tree bare. But don't despair. There are ways to protect trees from gypsy moths.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1

Remove objects from the yard that provide shelter for gypsy moth larvae: dead branches, leaves, pieces of bark and even old tires and cans.

Step2

Scrape off any egg masses you find on trees or in surrounding foliage, the sides of sheds or garages or in woodpiles. Either burn them or soak them thoroughly in soapy water or kerosene.

Step3

Place sticky bands around the bases of trees. This barrier prevents larvae from crawling up the trees and protects the leaves from being eaten. These bands are coated with a material that is toxic to gypsy moth larvae.

Step4

Populate your yard with more trees and plants that don't attract gypsy moth larvae. These include yellow poplar, ash, hickory, dogwood and many conifer trees. Larvae seek out places that offer more food sources and leave your trees alone.

Step5

Spray insecticide used to kill gypsy moth larvae. These insecticides are not toxic to trees, humans or animals and will best protect your trees from gypsy moths. This method is best when the presence of gypsy moth larvae is heavy.

Tips & Warnings

Trap older larvae by placing burlap around tree trunks. The larvae seeks out shade under the burlap. You can then collect and destroy the larvae.
Sticky bands made with petroleum jelly, applied to duct tape and wrapped around tree bases are an effective way to prevent larvae from climbing trees.

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Comments

carlene52 said

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on 9/5/2008 I have two trees that have some gypsy moth. I've cut off the branches with the moth...how can I further protect the tree? Can these moth kill me whole tree?