If you've spotted a silky, tent-like web wrapped around the end of a branch this week, that's fall webworm, and right now is exactly when it starts showing up across South Jersey. Unlike tent caterpillars in spring, these nests appear in late summer and grow larger through early fall.
Fall webworm rarely kills a healthy, established tree on its own, but heavy or repeated infestations stress the tree and leave affected branches looking bare and unsightly for weeks. Ornamental trees, fruit trees, and certain hardwoods tend to be the most common targets in our area.
Small nests can often be pruned out safely. Larger or widespread infestations are worth a second look from someone who can tell you whether it's just cosmetic or something that needs treatment before it spreads further into the canopy.
Have you noticed any of these webbed nests on your trees this season? Get Your Free Estimate at gregsmithtreeservice.com or call (856) 816-1475 and we'll take a look.
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A real photo of a fall webworm nest on a branch, ideally one from a recent job in Gloucester County. Close-up detail shots of the webbing against the foliage perform well for this kind of educational post.
Canva text suggestion: "Spotted a Web on Your Tree?" or "Fall Webworm Season Is Here"