How to Keep Plaster Bagworms Off Stucco Walls

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Things You'll Need

  • Vacuum

  • Enzyme cleaner

  • Sponge

Bagworms avoid clean, dry plaster.
Image Credit: Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images

Most homeowners find plaster bagworms hanging from the stucco inside their homes. The sight of insects on your wall can be a little unnerving, but plaster bagworms are relatively harmless. They don't do much to damage to the stucco. What they are often feeding on is the thin layer of soil that covers it. You don't need toxic pesticides to keep plaster bagworms off your stucco. According to the University of Florida Department of Etomology, all you need is a little housekeeping.

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Step 1

Remove all dirt, debris and insect matter from your home with the hose of a vacuum cleaner. To control the current infestation, remove any plaster bagworms or their larvae's watermelon-seed-shaped casings. Remove any spiderwebs, dust, hair, lint, dead insects and other matter to get rid of plaster bagworm feeding sites. Concentrate on areas adjacent to the stucco, on baseboards, moldings, under furniture and in any other cracks or crevices where debris likes to hide.

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Step 2

Wipe the stucco down with a well-wrung sponge and an enzyme cleaner diluted (if necessary) according to the label's instructions. Don't forget the baseboards and corners where dirt often accumulates.

Step 3

Reduce the humidity in the area. Bagworms only feed on stucco when the weather is humid and there is ample moisture. Run the air conditioning or place a dehumidifier in the room to prevent further infestation.

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