Keep caterpillars out of trees using sticky barrier bands
Late April is the time to put up sticky barrier bands around your landscape trees. Immediately after hatching, gypsy moth caterpillars disperse on silk threads and many will fall out of the trees. Barrier bands will prevent caterpillars from returning to the trees and help reduce damage from feeding. View directions to make a sticky barrier band trap using simple household materials. Monitor these each day and sweep caterpillars trapped below the barrier band into a bucket of soapy water.
Two important notes: 1) be aware that trees with deep furrows in the bark allow caterpillars to sneak behind the barrier band and hide. 2) Do not put the sticky material directly on your tree. Insecticides may also be used to help control gypsy moth at this time of year.