Sasha CampbellMany people think bagworms are a Christmas tree issue, but they can be a problem for homeowners and gardeners year-round. Fortunately, there are several natural methods you can use to control an infestation.
This post will discuss bagworms, how to identify them, and natural ways to get rid of them.
Damage
Some bagworms attack trees and shrubs outdoors, while others, such as plaster bagworms, may appear inside homes on ceilings and walls.
When populations are high, mature bagworms can cause significant damage to plants [1]. They feed on the needles and foliage of pine, spruce, juniper, and arborvitae.
Heavy infestations can strip foliage and occasionally damage buds and small twigs.
Identification
Bagworms are small plant pests that can be hard to identify.
The bags can grow up to 2 inches long and are often grayish-brown. They are often mistaken for caterpillars, but their distinctive protective cases resemble small bags.
Look for small cone-shaped bags hanging from branches.
These pests can look similar to tiny pine cones on evergreen trees. However, those on deciduous trees may appear as dried leafy growths hanging from the branches.
The larva can use its legs to move across surfaces and drag the case around like a snail. The protective cases form during the larval stage. That’s when most people first notice them.
The female lays her eggs inside the protective bag after mating.
Plaster bagworms may appear on ceilings, walls, garages, sheds, or other surfaces around the home. Outdoor bagworms are commonly found attached to trees, twigs, and plants with silk.
The adult male bagworm moths look dark and hairy, with a wingspan of about 1 inch [2].
Adult plaster bagworm moths can also be seen. They are usually dark gray and have 3 to 4 spots on their front wings.
What about the eggs? The female produces eggs in her pupal bag not long after mating.
These eggs are smooth and cylindrical, covered with a waxy, tuft-like layer. They also appear in masses.
If you are unsure whether you have bagworms, take pictures of the infestation and send them to an expert.
How to Get Rid of Bagworms Naturally
There are many DIY home remedies and organic ways to control bagworms in your yard and home.
Below, we’ve listed some of the most common and effective methods. Bagworms are easiest to control in late spring and early summer when the larvae are young.
1. Hand Pick
Hand-picking bagworms from plants or trees is one of the easiest ways to control them. It is one of the most effective ways to control small infestations.
Ensure that you get every cocoon because if you leave one, it can lead to another generation of bagworms.
Also, be sure to thoroughly check all affected trees and plants for bagworm bags. If you don’t remove them, they can hatch into new bagworms.
After removing them, put them in a container and pour hot water or vinegar over them.
2. Remove Debris from Under Trees
Raking up leaves and debris under trees may help reduce overwintering eggs and larvae.
This will remove eggs and larvae. However, be sure to dispose of all debris correctly, either by burning it or by sealing it in a bag and disposing of the bag.
3. Soap and Water
You can also kill bagworms using soap and water. All you’ll need is a bucket of plain, soapy water.
After picking off the bagworms, submerge them in the soapy water. Soaking the bags in soapy water helps kill the larvae and eggs inside.
4. Bacillus thuringiensis
Bacillus thuringiensis (or Bt) is a natural bacterium that controls certain pests. It attacks bagworms’ digestive systems, causing them to die.
BT can be purchased in spray or powder form. It is often found at garden centers or online. Follow the directions carefully before using.
Bt works best on young bagworm larvae in late spring or early summer before the bags become too large. It is an excellent alternative to chemical-based insecticides and is safe for pet owners and children.
5. Predatory Birds
Some birds, including chickadees and woodpeckers, may feed on bagworm larvae and bags, helping reduce populations naturally. So, try to attract predatory birds to your yard.
6. Neem Oil
Neem oil is a popular remedy for eliminating pests such as whiteflies, aphids, and spider mites. This natural pesticide is also effective against young bagworm larvae.
Mix 1.5 teaspoons of neem oil with 1/2 teaspoon of liquid soap and 1 quart of water to make a homemade bagworm spray. Next, spray it on affected plants to treat the bagworms.
Alternatively, you can buy neem oil concentrate at most garden centers or online. It is commonly used as a natural treatment for young bagworm larvae.
7. Trichogramma Wasps
Using Trichogramma wasps is another organic method to get rid of moth eggs.
Trichogramma wasps, tiny parasitic wasps, lay their eggs in bagworm eggs. The developing wasp larvae destroy the bagworm eggs before they can hatch.
These parasitic wasps can be purchased at specific garden centers or online. They are also very easy to handle.
You can release them around the plants infested with these pests, and they will take care of everything else.
8. Spinosad
Spinosad is also an effective and natural remedy for these pests. It works against many pests, including bagworms.
You can purchase spinosad in concentrated form. Follow the directions on the bottle to apply it correctly.
Many people use spinosad as an organic treatment for bagworms.
9. Moth-Repelling Plants
Some strongly scented plants may help discourage moth activity around the garden.
Plants that repel moths include rosemary, thyme, chrysanthemum, citronella, marigold, eucalyptus, and lemongrass. Plant them in various locations around your yard to help keep bagworms away.
10. Pheromone Traps
Pheromone traps can help monitor and reduce adult male bagworm moth populations. These traps use scent attractants that lure male moths into the trap.
By catching male moths, pheromone traps may help reduce mating and slow future infestations. They can also alert you to when bagworms are active in your area.
Place the traps near affected trees and shrubs during the bagworm mating season. Follow the instructions on the product label for the best results.
11. Reduce Unnecessary Outdoor Lighting
If you can discourage the moths from coming to your property, you will have fewer bagworms to deal with later.
Reducing unnecessary outdoor lighting may help limit the number of moths attracted to your property. Therefore, turn off your patio lights where possible.
12. Vacuum Them
Indoor vacuuming is most helpful for plaster bagworms or household casebearers.
Vacuum regularly to remove bagworms’ protective cases. Pay special attention to ceilings, walls, and corners.
Empty your vacuum bag or canister afterward.
Takeaway
Bagworms can be a serious problem for trees and shrubs. However, as you can see, there are many eco-friendly methods for keeping them away from plants and homes.
Try a few to see which ones work best for you.
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