Arborvitae: Juniper webworm
categories: Arborvitae Arborvitae Insects Conifers Ornamentals
last review date: 2026-02-12 09:47
Photo by: A.L. Antonelli
Biology
The adult juniper webworm is a copper-brown moth with white bands on the edges of the front wings. The moth is about 1⁄2″ across.
The webworm caterpillar initially feed by mining inside leaves. As they mature, they gather to feed in small colonies or nests of webbed foliage. The dark-headed caterpillars are yellowish to brown with dark brown lines on the back.
They overwinter in the nest and resume feeding in the spring. Fully mature caterpillars are about 1⁄2″ long. Damaged foliage turns brown and is covered with dirty webbing.
Due to the caterpillars’ habit of feeding deep in the plant canopy, damage may be easily overlooked.
Management Options
See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Hand-pick and destroy caterpillars.
- Prune out and destroy nests.
- Several natural enemies help control juniper webworm populations. Avoid use of broad-spectrum insecticides which may kill these beneficial predators and parasites.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- Begin monitoring in early spring (March) and apply when caterpillars are present.
- Apply Bt only when caterpillars are feeding.
- Use a spreader-sticker with liquid Bt formulations.
- Homeowners should not make foliar applications to trees over 10 ft tall.
- Consult a commercial pesticide applicator for treatment of trees and shrubs over 10 ft. tall.
Approved Pesticides
Examples of pesticides that are legal for home use in Washington State are listed below.
The list may not include all products registered for this use.
Additional Image
Photo by: K. Grey
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Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.