Pacific West Botanicals From Planting Instructions: under Pests and Diseases Oak Moths Oak moths - California Oak Moth - Coastal Zones Pale brown-tan, one inch wide moths lay eggs in live oak trees 2-3 times a year. First generation hatch in Nov. and overwinter on live oak leaves. Growing and eating more during the warmer weather in spring. About one inch long, full sized worms have bulbous brown heads and olive green bodies with distinct black and olive or yellow stripes. Moths emerge from pupae in June and July. Offspring eat from late July to October. Worms not a problem every year. Populations can defoliate trees for 2-3 years in a row and then almost disappear. In late March or April, look for telltale little green pellets - the droppings of feeding larvae - falling from live oaks. Can be sprayed with Bacillus thuringiensis, spray when worms are young. |