Box Tree Moth
Box Tree Moth in The Miami Valley: A Homeowner’s Guide
Box Tree Moth is an invasive pest that can quickly defoliate and kill boxwood. This first wave is moving very quickly through Miami Valley neighborhoods and we want to make sure you have the tools to protect your boxwood through this heavy first wave. This page keeps it simple for homeowners—how to recognize problems and choose homeowner‑friendly treatments. Always follow product labels.
What to look for:
The caterpillar and adult moth(above)
Skeletonized leaves and open areas
Tell-tale leaves hanging from the caterpillar’s silk(see video on right)
Box Tree Moth has three main signs you may notice in your yard:
- Caterpillars: Green with black and white striping and black spots; often hidden under silk webbing.
- Damage: Skeletonized or bronzed leaves, thin see‑through patches, and defoliation.
- Adults: White moths with a dark border (sometimes all brown), active at dusk.
What to do (simple homeowner steps)
- Inspect regularly. Look deep inside boxwoods every 1–2 weeks during the growing season. The moth seems to prefer bigger more established boxwood.
- Treat for young larvae. Apply labeled homeowner products when you see feeding, then re‑check in 7–10 days. Repeat only if the label instructs.
- Spray into the interior. Lightly shear to open the canopy so spray reaches where larvae hide.
- Keep pets & kids safe. Observe label re‑entry times and safety directions.
Timing & ongoing monitoring
- Expect multiple generations each season. Inspect every 1–2 weeks from spring through fall.
- Pheromone traps are for monitoring adult moths, not control.
- After treatment, re‑check in 7–10 days and follow the label for any retreatment.
Easy treatment choices (homeowner‑friendly)
Treatment to protect your boxwood through this first heavy wave of Box Tree Moth can be a great option to keep your boxwood alive until the pest pressure subsides.
|
|
|
|
The caterpillar and moth pictures are from Ohio Department of Agriculture. For more info https://agri.ohio.gov/divisions/plant-health/invasive-pests/invasive-insects/btm If replacing the boxwood with something else makes more sense for you, see our Boxwood Alternatives.