Don’t get fed up with geraniums, petunias
June 21, 2006
Before you blame hot temperatures for causing geraniums and petunias to flop, be sure the tobacco budworm is not to blame.
Tobacco budworms attack the flower buds of developing flowers. This prevents affected plants from blooming, often the first sign of infestation. If buds do open, the petals of the emerged flower look ragged, due to chewing.
“Tobacco budworms are common, but difficult to detect. Check buds and flowers for small holes, and look for budworms at dusk, when they are most active. During the day, investigate the base of geraniums and petunias, where they like to hide. The insects are active now through the rest of the growing season,” Peter Orwig, Ryan Lawn & Tree Agronomist said.
The worm is difficult to control, because it is resistant to most products. However, products containing a synthetic pyrethroid, such as bifenthrin and permethrin will protect plants. Developing geraniums and petunias that are resistant to tobacco budworm may provide long-term control of the pest in the future. Some petunia cultivars are more resistant to the worm than others, and ivy geraniums appear less affected than standard types.