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Protection of boxwood from boxwood moth
🪴 Boxwood and its enemy — the box tree moth: how to recognize and save the plants
Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) is one of the most popular ornamental plants. It is loved for its pleasant, evergreen foliage, beautiful shape, and unpretentiousness.
However, in recent years, serious threats from the box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis) have been observed throughout Europe and Ukraine.
🐛 What is the box tree moth
The box tree moth is a pest insect native to East Asia.
In its adult stage, it is a white-brown butterfly with a wingspan of up to 4 cm. However, the main threat comes from the caterpillars, which feed on the leaves and young shoots of the boxwood.
The larvae actively develop in spring and summer, completing several generations per season.In a short time, they can completely destroy the green parts of the bush, leaving only dry branches and webs.
⚠️Signs of boxwood damage.
Early detection of pests is key to saving plants.
Pay attention to the following signs:
The appearance of fine webbing inside the bush.
Leaves that are chewed and rolled into tubes.
Small green caterpillars with black stripes and spots.
Yellowing and leaf drop occur.
In severe infestations, the crown turns brown, the plant changes shape, and dies.
🚫 Consequences of no treatment
If measures are not taken in time:
The boxwood will lose all its leaves within 2–3 weeks.
Young shoots are affected — the plant stops recovering.
Caterpillars quickly spread to neighboring bushes.
Within 1–2 months, the bush may completely die.
It is important to remember: restoring boxwood after severe damage is almost impossible — this will lead to the removal of the bush.
Treatment and care
✅Biological plant treatment products
Suitable for prevention and moderate infestation.
Lepidocide, Bitoxibacillin, Fitoverm are effective against larvae and safe for bees and animals.
Treatment is carried out at the first signs of caterpillar presence, with a repeat application after 7–10 days.
⚙️Chemical insecticides.
Used during strong infestations:
Aktara, Decis, Karate Zeon, Confidor Maxi, Actellic.
For better results, it is best to spray plants in the evening when there is no wind and direct sunlight.
Be sure to treat the inside of the bush, as pests hide in the middle of the canopy.
🌿 Mechanical methods
Prune and destroy severely damaged branches.
After pruning, be sure to manually collect caterpillars and cocoons.
Dig over the soil under the bushes to destroy overwintering larvae.
🛡️Prevention of infestation by the clothes moth
To prevent a recurrence of box tree moth infestation:
Regularly inspect the bushes, especially in spring and early summer.
Carry out preventive spraying with biopreparations.
Fertilize the plants — the stronger the boxwood, the better it can defend against pests.
Avoid overwatering and overcrowding of plantings.
Conclusions
Boxwood is one of the most beautiful ornamental plants, but it requires attention.
Boxwood moth is not a death sentence: if you act in time and correctly, the bush can be saved.
Use proven treatments, monitor your plants, and your garden will turn green again.💚
Box tree moth caterpillars
The best protection for your garden
At Garden-art, we offer not just plant protection, but peace of mind. Our solutions will help you maintain the health and beauty of your plants for many years, creating a bright and pleasant outdoor space.
Protection of ornamental plants
We will help you understand and solve common plant problems, such as pests and diseases affecting ornamental plants, so that your garden remains beautiful and healthy.
The benefits of timely care
The main advantage of timely care is the assurance that the plants are under proper protection and care, allowing you to enjoy a blossoming garden without worrying about pests and diseases.
