Tomato Hornworm (2026)
Tomato, pepper, eggplant, potato
Quick answer: Tomato Hornworm attacks tomato, pepper, eggplant, potato. Start with the organic/IPM steps below; use the chemical option only if damage escalates, and always follow the product label. Till soil in fall to expose pupae; attract braconid wasps.
Your Tomato Hornworm IPM card
Select your state to see whether this pest is common there, then print.
Tomato Hornworm in Arkansas: Listed among the most-reported pests in your state — watch for it.
Tomato Hornworm
Targets
Tomato, pepper, eggplant, potato
Signs
Large green caterpillars; stripped leaves and black droppings.
Organic / IPM first
Hand-pick; Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) kurstaki; companion plant basil.
Chemical option (follow label)
Spinosad or carbaryl if damage is severe.
Prevention
Till soil in fall to expose pupae; attract braconid wasps.
Tomato Hornworm by host plant
Host-specific signs and control — see the full pest × host reference.
More pests
Treatments follow integrated pest management (IPM): identify first, least-toxic fix second. Product specifics and labels vary by state — confirm with your county extension.