Holly bud moth

Holly bud moth larvae feed inside the developing buds of holly and Oregon grape during spring, causing buds to brown and fail to develop properly. The small, pale caterpillars remain hidden within affected buds. Affected branches show stunted growth and deformed foliage when buds fail to open normally. Damage is often visible by late April or early May on susceptible host plants. You notice this rather than the caterpillar itself.

Prune out affected buds and branch tips during spring if populations are light. For repeated problems on valuable ornamentals, apply dormant oil in late winter to smother eggs and pupae. Once buds begin to swell, spray with spinosad or botanical insecticides; timing is critical. Maintain adequate plant vigor and avoid stress.