Pest identification
What's eating my mr bowling ball arborvitae?
Deer and rabbits
Signs: Foliage browsed to bare stems; entire plant can be consumed due to its low, compact habit
Control: Surround with wire mesh cage in autumn; apply deer/rabbit repellent spray; situate near structures or high-traffic areas
Bagworm (Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis)
Signs: Bags attached to shoots; foliage stripped around the bag; small plant can be killed by moderate infestation
Control: Hand-pick every bag visible; Bt spray at larval hatch in late June
Spider mites (Tetranychus spp.)
Signs: Fine bronzing and webbing on inner foliage, especially in hot dry weather
Control: Regular water spray to undersides of foliage; horticultural oil spray if infestation confirmed
Keep mr bowling ball arborvitae pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Mr Bowling Ball Arborvitae pests — FAQ
What is eating my mr bowling ball arborvitae?
Mr Bowling Ball Arborvitae is a very dwarf, globe-shaped Thuja that sits low to the ground, making all foliage accessible to deer and rabbits. Bagworms and spider mites are the main insect threats. Its tiny size means any defoliation is immediately visible and recovery is slow — prevention is critical.
How do I get rid of deer and rabbits on mr bowling ball arborvitae?
Foliage browsed to bare stems; entire plant can be consumed due to its low, compact habit Surround with wire mesh cage in autumn; apply deer/rabbit repellent spray; situate near structures or high-traffic areas
How do I get rid of bagworm (thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis) on mr bowling ball arborvitae?
Bags attached to shoots; foliage stripped around the bag; small plant can be killed by moderate infestation Hand-pick every bag visible; Bt spray at larval hatch in late June
How do I get rid of spider mites (tetranychus spp.) on mr bowling ball arborvitae?
Fine bronzing and webbing on inner foliage, especially in hot dry weather Regular water spray to undersides of foliage; horticultural oil spray if infestation confirmed