Box Caterpillar Infestation in York: How to Protect Your Box Plants
- Pete's Gardening Services
- Feb 6
- 2 min read
Box Caterpillar Infestation
in York: Preparing for the
Season Ahead
The box tree caterpillar (Cydalima perspectalis) caused significant damage to box hedges across York last spring and summer. As we approach the new growing season, now is the time to prepare and prevent another outbreak before it takes hold. Box caterpillars can defoliate and kill box plants rapidly, so early intervention is key to protecting your garden this year.
When to Watch for Box Caterpillars
Box caterpillars become active in spring and summer, typically from March to October, with peak activity during warmer months. Now, in February, is the perfect time to inspect your box plants and put preventative measures in place before they emerge.
Signs of Box Caterpillar Damage
If your box plants suffered last year, you might have noticed:
Leaves turning brown and skeletonised – Caterpillars strip leaves, leaving only veins behind.
Silken webbing – A sign of caterpillar activity in foliage.
Greenish-yellow caterpillars with black heads – These pests cluster on the leaves.
Pupa or chrysalis formation – Brown pupae hidden in the plant signal new moths emerging.
Moths with white wings and brown borders – The adult stage of the pest, laying eggs for the next generation.
How to Prepare & Prevent Box Caterpillars in York 2024
With last year’s infestations still fresh in many gardeners' minds, here’s how to get ahead of the problem this season:
1. Inspect & Monitor Now
Check your box plants regularly for signs of damage from last season.
Remove any pupae or overwintering caterpillars found in sheltered spots.
Set up pheromone traps in late February or early March to catch emerging moths and monitor activity.
2. Strengthen Your Box Plants
Apply a slow-release organic fertiliser to help plants recover from last year’s stress.
Prune any dead or damaged foliage to encourage healthy regrowth.
Mulch around the base to improve soil health and moisture retention.
3. Introduce Natural Predators
Encourage birds like blue tits, which feed on caterpillars, by installing bird boxes.
Introduce beneficial insects, such as parasitic wasps (Trichogramma), to target caterpillar eggs.
4. Apply Preventative Treatments
Spray neem oil or Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) on box plants as soon as moth activity is detected.
Consider organic insecticidal soaps to prevent eggs from hatching.
Avoid chemical pesticides where possible to protect beneficial insects.
5. Plan for Alternative Planting
If your box plants suffered extensive damage last year, consider replacing them with more resilient alternatives such as:
Ilex crenata (Japanese holly) – Similar in appearance to box but pest-resistant.
Lonicera nitida (Shrubby honeysuckle) – A fast-growing, low-maintenance hedge.
Taxus baccata (Yew) – A traditional alternative for evergreen screening.
Box caterpillars caused serious damage in York last year, but by taking preventative action now, you can protect your box plants from another infestation this season. Regular monitoring, natural pest control, and timely treatments will make all the difference.
If you need help preparing your garden for the upcoming season, get in touch with Pete’s Gardening Services for expert advice and maintenance solutions!
📞 Call us: 07709609089
📧 Email: hello@petesgardeningservices.co.uk
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