Why do I have spider webs on my apple blossoms? - Ask Extension
Do I have pests this early, and if so what are the best ways to control them?
Knowledgebase
Why do I have spider webs on my apple blossoms? #928627
Asked April 16, 2026, 4:46 PM EDT
Do I have pests this early, and if so what are the best ways to control them?
Benton County Oregon
Expert Response
Thank you for contacting "ask extension" with your question about webbing on your apple blossom.
Spider webs on apple blossoms in early spring can be either (1) true spider webs from beneficial predators or (2) silk “webbing” made by early-season caterpillars (leafrollers and related moth larvae) that tie blossoms/leaves together while they feed. It is possible to have pest activity this early—some moth larvae overwinter on bark and become active around budbreak, feeding on buds/leaves and webbing plant parts together.
If possible please send me a close up photo of the webbing and nearby buds/leaves. That will help in determining if it's a beneficial insect or a pest.
Spider webs on apple blossoms in early spring can be either (1) true spider webs from beneficial predators or (2) silk “webbing” made by early-season caterpillars (leafrollers and related moth larvae) that tie blossoms/leaves together while they feed. It is possible to have pest activity this early—some moth larvae overwinter on bark and become active around budbreak, feeding on buds/leaves and webbing plant parts together.
If possible please send me a close up photo of the webbing and nearby buds/leaves. That will help in determining if it's a beneficial insect or a pest.
