Knowledgebase
Pear Tree Leaves Being Eaten By Little Green Worms #869440
Asked May 21, 2024, 11:58 AM EDT
Our pear tree leaves are being eaten by little green worms, which are also all over the ground under the tree. What can we do to prevent more damage to the leaves and eventual fruit?
Larimer County Colorado
Expert Response
These are cankerworms, which are a type of inchworm. While they are doing some damage, rarely is it warranted to control them. If they are on the ground, birds and other predators will eat them.
Here's information from Utah State: https://extension.usu.edu/planthealth/research/cankerworm
To confirm, is this a production pear tree? Not an ornamental pear? There are pesticides that you can use that are considered to be lower risk, such as spinosad, Bt, and Azadirachtin. These might be best applied by a tree care company, if you don't have the equipment to apply the product effectively in the entire tree canopy.
Hi Allison,
This is a production pear tree. We harvest the pears, and our dog eats the fallen pears.
The tree is next to our koi pond, so concerned about any over spray that would get into the pond.
Should we have the tree sprayed? Or leave as is.
Thanks, Randy
From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> On Behalf Of Ask Extension
Sent: Tuesday, May 21, 2024 11:25 AM
To: Randall Koerselman <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: Pear Tree Leaves Being Eaten By Little Green Worms (#0139361)
I am unable to make the decision whether or not to spray for you - I would weigh the pros and cons and decide what's best.
If a professional does the application, they will take all caution to ensure it is applied directly to the tree and not the rest of the landscape.
