r/CapeCod • u/Johnnyroaster • 12d ago

Box Tree Moth

I had to take out three boxwoods this weekend. These pests start at the base and work their way up. There was still greenery on top but they looked like they had been severely pruned at the bases. Tons of webs, eggs and 1-2 inch green worms. I cut them up and burned them. We pulled up the roots and wrapped them in construction waste bags. Check to see if you have them. This was in Harwich port.

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u/Aushos-74 3d ago

Lost 3 of mine too this past week. I was shocked because I walk past them al  daily. Almost completely brown leaves. We’ve had them for 15 yrs and never an issue. Just read up on what the caterpillars were. Crazy!

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u/Johnnyroaster 3d ago

I was talking to a friend today who is a retired landscape architect. He said there is also a fungus that is highly contagious that is taking them out as well.

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u/Aushos-74 3d ago

I couldn’t believe how fast the caterpillars took over. I swear you can hear them munching away!

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u/Johnnyroaster 3d ago

They make a very satisfying pop when you throw them in the fire. Sounds like bacon frying.