McCharles Tree Service

🐛 Tent Caterpillars: What You Need to Know 🌳

If you’re noticing silky “tents” forming in the branches of trees this spring, you’re likely seeing tent caterpillars at work. While they’re a natural part of our ecosystem, large infestations can seriously stress trees and shrubs.

🔎 What are tent caterpillars?
Tent caterpillars are the larvae of moths. They hatch in spring and build web-like nests (“tents”) in the crotches of branches, most commonly in:
• Cherry
• Apple/crabapple
• Aspen/poplar
• Birch
• Other deciduous trees

The caterpillars leave the tent during the day to feed on leaves, often stripping branches quickly during heavy infestations.

⚠️ What damage do they cause?
• Defoliation (loss of leaves)
• Stress to the tree
• Reduced growth and vigor
• Increased vulnerability to drought, disease, and other pests

Healthy, mature trees can usually recover from one season of feeding, but repeated or severe infestations can weaken trees significantly — especially young or already stressed trees.

🛠️ What can homeowners do?
✅ Remove tents early
Prune out small tents in the morning or evening when caterpillars are inside. Dispose of them in soapy water or sealed bags.

✅ Spray with soapy water
A strong spray of soapy water can help kill caterpillars directly and may help break down smaller nests.

✅ Try the shop vac method
One effective homeowner trick is using a shop vac with a small amount of soapy water in the tank. Vacuum the caterpillars directly from the trunk, branches, or tents — they drown in the tank and can then be safely disposed of afterward.

✅ Avoid burning tents
Using a torch or fire can seriously damage bark and create wounds that harm the tree more than the caterpillars themselves.

✅ Encourage natural predators
Birds, wasps, and other insects help keep populations under control naturally.

✅ Keep trees healthy
Proper watering, mulching, and general tree care help trees recover from feeding damage.

✅ Call an arborist for severe infestations
Large infestations may require professional assessment or treatment, especially if valuable trees are repeatedly affected.

A few caterpillars are usually more of a nuisance than a serious threat — but keeping an eye on populations early can help prevent bigger problems later in the season.

Have questions about your trees? Reach out — we’re happy to help identify what you’re seeing and discuss the best course of action. 🌲

Happy Mother’s Day from McCharles Tree Service 💐

Today we celebrate all the incredible moms and moms-to-be who work tirelessly every day to support, guide, and care for their families. Your strength, love, patience, and dedication do not go unnoticed.

Whether you are spending the day with family, remembering loved ones, preparing to welcome a little one, or balancing work and motherhood like a true superhero, today is for you.

From all of us at McCharles Tree Service, we wish every mama and mama-to-be a beautiful Mother’s Day filled with love, laughter, and appreciation. ❤️

Thank you for everything you do.

🔥 FROM TREE TO TREASURE 🔥

McCharles Tree Service is in full production, turning raw logs into premium firewood and one of a kind wood pieces you will not find in a box store.

✔ Handcrafted live edge slabs with natural character
✔ Solid dimensional wood for builds, beams, and projects
✔ Clean, quality firewood ready to burn

If you are building something special or want real wood with a story, now is the time. Reach out and let’s work out a deal that makes sense for your project.

📍 Central Alberta
📞 587-377-5967

Real wood. Real work. Real results.