Cankerworms, also known as inchworms, can wreak havoc on your trees, especially in the spring and fall in the prairie provinces. Even though tree banding can be an effective way to stop these pests, it is fundamental that you know how to do it properly to keep these caterpillars away from your property’s surroundings. At Poulin’s Pest Control, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you avoid the most common tree-banding mistakes that could be putting your trees at risk.
1. Banding Too Late in the Season
When it comes to tree banding and cankerworm prevention, timing is everything. One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is waiting too long to apply tree bands. The adult female cankerworm moths are wingless and climb trees in the fall and again in early spring. If you wait until after the caterpillars are already active, it is too late.
In most regions, fall banding should be done by mid-September, and spring banding by early March. Monitor local pest alerts or consult with a pest control expert to get the timing right.
2. Using the Wrong Materials
Not all tree bands are created equal. Some people use duct tape, plastic wrap, or other household materials that don’t effectively trap cankerworms. In fact, using the wrong materials is not only inefficient but also dangerous to the health and integrity of your trees.
Use a nontoxic, sticky substance like Tanglefoot on a band of insulation or burlap wrapped around the tree. This creates a barrier that traps the caterpillars without damaging the bark.
3. Improper Band Placement
Placing the band too high or too low on the trunk can reduce its effectiveness. Bands should be placed about 1.5 metres (4-5 feet) from the ground to intercept the adult female cankerworms as they climb. Make sure the band is snug against the bark with no gaps underneath.
4. Neglecting to Maintain the Bands
Tree bands aren’t a “set it and forget it” solution. Over time, the sticky surface can become clogged with debris, leaves, or even dead insects, making it ineffective.
Check your bands every week or two and reapply the sticky substance as needed. Replace a band entirely if it becomes too dirty or damaged.
5. Forgetting to Remove Bands After the Season
Leaving bands on too long can trap moisture against the bark, leading to mould, rot, or even girdling the tree. It’s a common oversight that can cause long-term damage.
Take down your tree bands once the cankerworm season has passed, typically before June. Clean the area thoroughly to prevent any lingering issues.
6. Only Banding One Tree
If you only band one tree in an area full of potential tree hosts close to each other, cankerworms may simply bypass your efforts and move from tree to tree with ease.
Band all susceptible trees on your property, especially maple, elm, oak, apple, linden/basswood, and ash trees. If you live in a neighbourhood with many trees that touch, consider coordinating with your neighbours for a community-wide effort.
Professional Cankerworm Pest Control
Tree banding is a simple, cost-effective way to protect your trees from cankerworms, but only if it’s done correctly. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll give your trees the best chance to thrive year after year.
If you are looking for effective tree-banding solutions and pest control services, Poulin’s Pest Control is here to help. Don’t hesitate to give us a call and let us help you keep your trees healthy and your yard cankerworm-free in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Reach out to us!