If you’re a recent Austin transplant from California or New York, you’re probably wondering why so many caterpillars (which everyone refers to as worms) are falling from trees. Not to worry, it’s not a plague or a sign of end times, it’s something that happens every year to our oak trees here in Austin. These caterpillars are native to Central Texas and some years are worse than others…2021 is one of those years.
Introducing The Oak Leafroller
That wiggly guy that is falling into your hair, and onto your clothes, is known as an Oak Leafroller and they like to appear in the spring to feed on oak leaves. They are also currently laying eggs on/and beneath the tree for next spring. They are typically green and small in size (less than an inch long). Most of the time, no treatment is needed and you can rely on nature to run its course as these caterpillars are fed on by birds and squirrels.
However, in that rare case that treatment IS needed, your trees may need deep root fertilization or even a spray treatment. If you are noticing defoliation, call us today to see if one of these treatments may be needed.
