Bagworm caterpillars feed on the leaves of evergreens such as blue spruce, arborvitae and red cedar, as well as some deciduous trees such as maple and crabapple. Mature bagworm caterpillars ?EUR??,,????'?????<

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Early measures of bagworm control can include application of insecticides or introducing a natural bagworm predator. In central Illinois, bagworm egg hatching occurs in early to mid-June or later. Pesticides are most effective when applied two weeks after egg hatch. An additional application is advised one to two weeks later to control later emerging caterpillars.

Galva City Forester Roger Ingels and the University of Illinois Extension suggest that when infestation is not severe, bagworms can be removed or clipped by hand. After removing the bagworms, put them in a bucket or plastic bag filled with soapy water to kill them.

One recommended pesticide is Bacillus thuringiensis, an organic control for caterpillars. It is a bacterium and is safe to use around children and pets. Contact the University of Illinois Extension for other bagworm removal tips.