As beautiful weather makes itself known along the environment, plants thrive and show their true colors. This includes when trees show off their new leaves and healthy bark. When you see these trees, you think of how pretty and amazing nature is. As you look closer, you might see spider webs growing along your tree. This can change the way you think as these webs downgrade the overall look of nature in general. It not only affects the look, but also the health of the tree as well.
In this blog post, our professionals from Timber Ridge Tree Care will talk about what spiders build these webs and how you can remove them.
What Spider is Constructing Webs on These Trees?
This is a question often asked since these webs are seen in most places. The interesting part is, these are not spider webs nor spiders themselves. These webs come from Eastern tent caterpillars and webworms. These species develop a web while they consume trees, which is their source of food. Both of these organisms feed off of healthy trees, but in different time periods. The Eastern tent caterpillar is known for exclusively crafting these webs during the springtime. Whereas for the webworm, the fall time is the most active part of the season for them.
What Are Eastern Tent Caterpillars & Webworms?
Both of these species are part of the moth family, which then separate to different branches. The Eastern tent caterpillar is part of the Lasiocampidae family, whereas the webworm belongs to the Erebidae family. Both organisms have the characteristics of creating webs as they acquire nutrients from the tree. The difference between them is the thickness and location of these webs.
For the Eastern tent caterpillar, their webs are usually very thick and have a cotton type of texture. However, webworms develop very loose and thin webs. For their location, you’ll find the Eastern tent caterpillar’s webs in between the areas where tree branches connect or branches that are connecting to the trunk of the tree. As for the webworm, their webs usually happen anywhere on the tree.
Are These Webs Harmful For The Tree?
Of course the biggest concern is if these webs harm the tree. Yes they do. As older trees aren’t the concerning area, younger trees are. These organisms tend to target younger trees as they can acquire more nutrients from it. As this happens, this can cause leaf loss for the tree before it even grows. This is where it is important for you to step in and call the professionals to handle the situation.
How to Get Rid of These Webs
The best way for you to help is by removing these webs with a broom. It’ll instantly improve the appearance of the tree and keep it safe, for now. These species sometimes aren’t even present when their webs are there. Although that’s the case, they can return next season. Calling a tree care company can give you the upper hand in this situation with special methods to combat these organisms.
Looking For a Tree Care Company?
Are you having trouble dealing with your tree? Then you’ve come to the right place as we at Timber Ridge Tree Care provide tree services with professionals dedicated to resolving your issues. Contact our friendly representatives to send an expert your way.