What do I do about hairy worms eating my tomato leaves?

Answer by  ijlalnoor (2656)

The best defense against them is to hand pick these worms everyday. You can also sprinkle the leaves with rye flour (do this in the morning when dew is still on the leaves so it sticks).

Answer by  worker3873 (146)

Caterpillars, or 'hairy worms' can be prevented by spraying your plant with BT, a bacteria that kills the caterpillars before it munches the whole plant.

Answer by  worker2013 (37)

There are many options including store bought pesticides but if you want to go on the safe side then you can try adding equal parts of tobbaco and/or chile peppers and water. It will kill most pests.

Answer by  Valentine62 (2131)

These are tomato worms! Without the use of harsh chemicals and going "green", a great way to get rid of the worms are by picking off as many as possible from the plant and spraying soapy water over the leaves. Another option, as a good repellent, is talcum powder.

Answer by  Wade (168)

When you plant tomatoes put some marigold plants interspersed among them. The smell of the marigolds drives the worms away.