Two species. Green, diagonal lines on sides, prominent horn on rear end, up to 4 inches long.
Tomato, eggplant and pepper.
Eat foliage and fruit.
Throughout United States; infestations localized.
Tomato hornworms overwinter in the pupal stage. Adult moths appear in late spring and lay eggs that hatch in about a week. Larvae feed on foliage for about a month before they enter the soil and pupate.
For tomato hornworms, if an average of one hornworm per plant is determined on ten plants, treatment is warranted. Spot treatment is often effective, as this insect often is localized in a field.
Hand-pick worms off plants and destroy.
Braconid wasps parasitize the caterpillars. Trichogramma wasps parasitize the eggs. Bacillus thuringiensis can be used to control hornworms.
Treat with a registered insecticide as labeled.
Notice: Because pesticide labels can change rapidly, you should read the label directions carefully before buying and using any pesticides. Regardless of the information provided here, you should always follow the latest product label when using any pesticide. If you have any doubt, please contact your local Extension agent or pesticide dealer for the latest information on pesticide label changes.
Disclaimer: Commercial products named on this site are for informational purposes only. Virginia Cooperative Extension does not endorse these products and does not intend discrimination against other products which also may be suitable.
Foster, Rick and Brian Flood. 1995. Vegetable Insect Management, Meister Publishing Company, Willoughby, Ohio. p. 81.
Prepared by Alexandra Spring and Eric Day (Modified from a publication by the USDA)