A plant expert has revealed a 24p solution to tackle a deadly moth which is attacking boxwood trees across the UK this summer.
Also known as Cydalima perspectalis, the box tree moth has been every gardener's nightmare since it arrived in the UK in 2007.
Between April and October, these pests, which arrive from East Asia, devastate plants, rapidly turning them from lush green to bare bones.
Adult box moths can be identified by their white wings edged with brown, while the nymphs are greenish-yellow with black heads.
They spend the winter in the canopies of boxwood plants before emerging in the spring to wreak havoc in gardens across the country.
If not dealt with immediately, these insects can quickly completely destroy your boxwood plants and hedges, turning your dream garden into a ruined landscape.
Early signs of boxwood caterpillar damage include obvious webs being built on the plants.
Elise Hurlock, brand manager and horticulture guru at Prestige Flowers, reveals effective, budget-friendly solutions to protect your box plants from these voracious pests.
She said: “Boxwood moths are a serious problem but there are simple, natural ways to keep them at bay without resorting to harsh chemicals.”
“One effective strategy is to use garlic spray, which acts as a natural insect repellent.”
With four packets of fresh garlic costing just 95p, this clever trick will set you back less than 24p per serving.
Elise adds: “Start by taking two cloves of garlic. Crush them and soak them in about 500ml of water overnight. In the morning, strain the mixture to remove the garlic pieces.”
“Add a teaspoon of vegetable oil and a few drops of dish soap to the garlic water.
“The oil helps the mixture stick to the leaves, and the soap helps distribute the mixture evenly.”
She continued: “Once the spray is ready, pour it into a spray bottle and spray directly onto your potted plants.”
“Make sure to cover the undersides of leaves well, especially where pests tend to hide.
“Repeat the process every two weeks or after a heavy rain to maintain effectiveness. This garlic spray works to repel moths and caterpillars without harming your plants or the surrounding environment.”
“It's a safe, cost-effective way to help keep your box plants healthy and vibrant.”
Other Tips for Getting Rid of Box Moths
Aside from using garlic spray, there are a number of practical steps you can take to manage and prevent boxwood moth infestations: Regularly monitoring your boxwood plants is important, especially during the active season from April to October.
- “Early detection can prevent serious damage, so keep an eye out for signs of nests and caterpillars,” Elise says. “If you spot any caterpillars, remove them by hand to eliminate them and prevent further damage.”
- Pheromone traps are also effective. These traps help monitor moth activity and can reduce populations by attracting and capturing male moths. Attracting natural predators such as birds can help control larval populations.
- “Consider placing bird feeders and bird-friendly plants in your yard to attract these helpful friends.”