Rose: Redhumped caterpillar

Biology

The redhumped caterpillar is the larvae of a 1″ gray-brown moth. The mature larvae are yellow with a red head and hump, and have orange, black, and white lengthwise stripes. The body of the caterpillar also has dark “spikes” on it. Young redhumped caterpillars are found in clustered colonies which disperse as caterpillars mature. They eat entire leaves (except the major veins).

Management Options

Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

• Cut out and destroy colonies before they disperse.
• Hand-pick and destroy individual caterpillars.

Chemical Management

IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.

• Apply when caterpillars are observed.
• Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) will control leafrollers only if they are actively feeding.
• Use a spreader-sticker with liquid Bt formulations.

Approved Pesticides

Listed below are examples of pesticides that are legal in Washington. Always read and follow all label directions.

• ferti-lome Broad Spectrum Insecticide
  Active ingredient: bifenthrin [EPA registration number: 53883-228-7401]
• ferti-lome Dipel Dust
  Active ingredient: Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki [EPA registration number: 7401-290]
• Safer Brand Caterpillar Killer for Trees, Shrubs and Vegetables Concentrate II [Organic]
  Active ingredient: Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki [EPA registration number: 70051-106-42697]
• This list may not include all products registered for this use.

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