Fall webworms common sight through November

Submitted photo NOT SERIOUS PEST: Fall webworms can be seen across Arkansas through November. Call the Arkansas Forestry Commission for additional information on them.
Submitted photo NOT SERIOUS PEST: Fall webworms can be seen across Arkansas through November. Call the Arkansas Forestry Commission for additional information on them.

LITTLE ROCK -- Fall webworms are a common sight across Arkansas during the fall season. Not to worry -- this small creature is not considered a serious forest pest because it rarely kills or significantly damages the host tree. It is, however, unsightly and occasionally may cause damage to pecan groves. Fall webworms are most commonly found on pecan, persimmon and other fruiting trees, and occasionally other hardwood leaves.

Webworms usually begin to appear in late July and will disappear by mid-November. Removal options are fairly straightforward, homeowners should simply remove the webs with a broom or pole that can reach the web. Most trees fully recover after webs are removed. Proper tree care, such as mulching, watering during drought and avoiding wounds from lawnmowers and trimmers, are beneficial to a tree's healing process and overall health.

What is the webworm's life cycle? Moths emerge each spring and, after mating, females lay eggs on the undersides of leaves of the host tree. Eggs hatch in about two weeks and larvae immediately begin to feed and construct tent-like webs. They remain inside the web, enlarging it as they feed for four to eight weeks. Fully grown larvae leave the web when ready to pupate. They spin the pupal cocoon in a sheltered place or in the duff or soil. Adult female moths of the last generation lay eggs in mid-summer. Larvae complete feeding in late fall and overwinter as pupae. There are at least two generations of webworms annually, in Arkansas.

Should residents notice damaged trees not re-leafing or seek a positive identification of fall webworms, local AFC Foresters are available to assist. Find contact information for all AFC county foresters at http://www.forestry.arkansas.gov/contactus.

The mission of the Arkansas Forestry Commission is to protect Arkansas' forests, and those who enjoy them, from wildland fire and natural hazards while promoting rural and urban forest health, stewardship, development, and conservation for all generations of Arkansans. To report wildfires, call 800-468-8834. To report prescribed burns, call 800-830-8015.

Society on 10/04/2015

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