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Sphinx Hummingbird Moth #757329

Asked June 20, 2021, 5:49 PM EDT

I know that the hornworm is the caterpillar for this moth. I have the moths on my peppers and tomato plants in my garden. Is there a safe insecticide product that will get rid of them?

Livingston County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello Cindy,

Not seeing anything on a recommended safe pesticide to control the sphinx moth adults. Because the occurrence of sphinx moths is cyclic, noticeable damage is uncommon. Naturally occurring parasites normally control this pest, and other control should not be needed. Adult sphinx moths feed only on nectar

Here are some articles on the sphinx moth:

https://scotland.ces.ncsu.edu/2019/08/hummingbird-moths-a-gardeners-dilemma/

https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/garden-scoop/2015-08-13-tomato-hornworms-and-hummingbird-moths

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/hornworms-and-hummingbird-moths-5-517/

https://www.uky.edu/Ag/CritterFiles/casefile/insects/butterflies/sphinx/sphinx.htm

Now there is some good information here on controlling the hornworm caterpillar - For complete article check out: Tomato hornworms in home gardens - the University of Minnesota Extension at this link: https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/tomato-hornworms

Hope this helps!!

An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 21, 2021, 6:12 PM EDT

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