Start Looking for Bagworms Now

A local extension agent says now is an important time to start scouting for bagworms, a perennial problem that affects many trees common to Kansas landscapes.

Although the cool weather we experienced this spring slowed down the hatching of bagworm caterpillars, River Valley District Horticulture Agent Kelsey Hatesohl says they are now present throughout Kansas.  Bagworms are feeding on evergreen and broadleaf trees and shrubs, so Hatesohl tells KNCK News now is the best time to act against bagworms because control is easier when they are young. 

Bagworms are primarily a pest of evergreens; however, they feed on a wide range of host plants including several broadleaf plants, such as; rose, honey locust, hackberry, and flowering plum.

If left unchecked, bagworms can cause significant damage and ruin the aesthetic quality of plants.  In addition, bagworms may kill plants, especially newly transplanted small evergreens, since evergreens do not usually produce another flush of growth after being fed upon or defoliated by bagworms.

Many insecticides are labeled to control bagworms, but Hatesohl says timing and coverage must be carefully planned to ensure effectiveness.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Hatesohl in the Washington office of the River Valley District at (785) 325-2121, or email khatesohl@ksu.edu.