A few days ago we shared some pictures of Indian Hawthorns that had been eaten up by bagworms. Today, we came across some Knockout roses that have been completely destroyed by them. The damage was severe, and it happened fast.
When most people think of bagworms, they picture them hanging from junipers, cedars, or cypress trees. And while those are definitely their favorite targets, it's important to remember that bagworms will attack other plants as well. Homeowners in Midlothian, Prosper, and throughout North Texas need to keep an eye on all their ornamental shrubs—not just the usual suspects.
How to Identify Bagworms
Bagworms are easy to spot once you know what to look for. The telltale sign is the large "bag" that hangs from the limbs and stems of affected plants. These bags are constructed from silk and bits of the plant material they're feeding on, creating a camouflaged cocoon that protects the worm inside.
Look for plants that appear to be literally eaten—foliage that's stripped, browning, or showing obvious feeding damage. The bags themselves can range from half an inch to two inches long, and a single plant can have dozens or even hundreds of them in a bad infestation.
Plants Commonly Affected
While bagworms prefer evergreens, they're not picky eaters. In the DFW area, we commonly see them on:
- Junipers and cedars
- Cypress and arborvitae
- Indian Hawthorns
- Knockout roses
- Various other ornamental shrubs
If you have a mix of ornamentals in your landscape, check them all. Just because your junipers look fine doesn't mean your other plants are safe.
How to Get Rid of Bagworms
Dealing with bagworms is pretty straightforward, but the approach depends on the size of your plants.
For smaller shrubs or trees where you can reach the bags, simply remove them all by hand and dispose of them properly. Don't just drop them on the ground—bag them up and throw them away to prevent the cycle from continuing.
For larger trees where the bags are out of reach, apply a Bifenthrin spray treatment to kill the worms. Spray thoroughly to ensure coverage on affected areas.
Act Fast—They Work Quickly
Bagworms don't take long to do serious damage. A healthy shrub can be stripped in a matter of weeks once an infestation takes hold. If you notice bagworms on any plants in Waxahachie, Midlothian, Prosper, or anywhere else in North Texas, deal with them immediately. The longer you wait, the worse the damage gets.
Watch the video below to see what bagworm damage looks like and learn how to remove them from your plants.
For professional pest control and ornamental care in Midlothian and Prosper, contact Vista Lawn and Pest.
