The Garden

Tomato Hornworms

If your tomato plant looks stripped overnight with large sections of leaves missing, tomato hornworms are likely the cause.

What They Look Like
Tomato hornworms are large green caterpillars that blend in remarkably well with tomato plants.
They have white diagonal stripes along their sides and a distinct horn-like spike on the rear.
They are often difficult to see even when they are large because they match the color of the plant.

Damage Signs
Large sections of leaves missing or stripped
Bare stems where foliage has been eaten
Damage appears quickly, often overnight
Dark droppings (frass) visible on leaves or below the plant
Plants may look heavily defoliated in a short time

Plants Affected
Tomatoes
Peppers
Eggplant
Potatoes

Fast Control (Start Here)
Inspect plants carefully, especially near the top and on stems
Look for frass, which often leads you directly to the caterpillar
Handpick hornworms as soon as they are found
Check plants daily once damage is noticed

Additional Control Options
Encourage beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps
Leave hornworms with white cocoons attached, as they are already controlled
Use BT or spinosad if populations are high
Focus treatment on early-stage caterpillars when possible

Prevention
Check plants regularly during peak growing season
Encourage beneficial insects in the garden
Remove weeds that can host related pests
Keep plants healthy and well spaced for easier inspection

Notes for Gardeners
Hornworms can cause severe damage very quickly because of their size
They are often missed until damage becomes obvious
Seeing one usually means there are more nearby
Parasitized hornworms (with white cocoons) should be left in place
Regular inspection is the most effective control method