{"pest":"tomato-hornworm","type":"pest","affects":[{"crop":"tomato","pest":"tomato-hornworm","type":"pest","severity":"high","symptoms":"Large green caterpillars (3-4 inches at maturity) with white diagonal stripes and a curved horn at the rear. Defoliation of upper leaves first, working down the plant. Dark green droppings on lower leaves are usually the first sign before the caterpillar itself is spotted.","organicManagement":["Handpick into soapy water; the most effective control for small gardens.","Spray Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki) on foliage; works on larvae under 1.5 inches.","Encourage parasitic braconid wasps (white rice-like cocoons on hornworm backs); leave parasitized hornworms in place to release the next wasp generation.","Companion plant with dill, basil, marigold to draw braconid wasps."],"prevention":"Fall tilling exposes overwintering pupae to predators and freezing. Rotate nightshades on a 3-year cycle. Inspect plants twice weekly from July through August.","regions":["all"],"source":"Cornell Cooperative Extension; UC IPM"}],"severities":["high"],"regions":["all"]}