Q: I have an infestation of black and white worms that are actually hatching in webs on the leaves. Tons of droppings and worms are eating the bulbs of my hippies (Hippeastrums). HELP! Lyn - Bli Bli.
A: Now, this is a ‘tricky one’! One that I have not come across before, actually.
Is it the same type of black and white ‘worm’ that is ‘hatching on webs on leaves’, that is ALSO ‘eating the bulbs’ of your hippies? Caterpillars that eat leaves of plants generally don’t attack ‘roots’ or bulbs as well. But then again…you have only said that they are ‘hatching in webs on leaves’, and not that they are eating the leaves as well. Could you be having a ‘double-barrelled’ attack of two different pests attacking your hippies at the same time? It would be great if you could send me a photograph of your problems.
I suggest that you try treating your plants with Rogor/Dimethoate or Confidor. Rather than spraying your plants, I suggest that you use a watering can and lightly pour the mixture over your plants.
