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10 Best Caterpillar Killer 2025 in the UK

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

TOPBUXUS XenTari - Professional Dosage - Against Box Tree Moth Caterpillar - Biological - Safe for Bees and Birds

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,347
Target Pests
Application Frequency
Safety for Plants and Environment
Target Pests
Complete coverage is crucial; within five days, there were no signs of caterpillars, and the box plants began to revive.
Application Frequency
This product has been a lifesaver for our buxus trees, following the instructions ensures it works effectively.
Safety for Plants and Environment
The product is fantastic, with the box recovering by at least 80%, bringing a pleasant surprise as new growth emerges.

The TOPBUXUS XenTari caterpillar killer stands out as a biological solution specifically targeting box tree caterpillars, making it ideal for gardeners dealing with this particular pest. It boasts a quick action formula, causing caterpillars to stop feeding within an hour, which effectively minimizes damage to boxwood plants. The product is user-friendly with straightforward application instructions, requiring no scales, and allows for efficient treatment of up to 150m² with its highly concentrated formula.

Furthermore, its natural composition featuring Bacillus thuringiensis makes it environmentally friendly and safe for bees and birds, catering well to eco-conscious users. The treatment is designed to be applied once per boxwood moth cycle, up to three times per season, which aligns with typical pest management practices and minimizes the need for frequent applications. However, the specificity of its target means it may not be suitable if you have broader pest issues beyond caterpillars.

Additionally, while it offers long shelf life when stored properly, the requirement for specific storage conditions might be inconvenient for some users. With positive customer reviews and high rankings, it demonstrates reliability and effectiveness, although potential buyers should consider its limited pest scope and storage needs when deciding. This caterpillar-killer would best suit those looking to protect boxwood plants specifically, without harming beneficial insects or the environment.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,347
Target Pests
Application Frequency
Safety for Plants and Environment
Target Pests
Complete coverage is crucial; within five days, there were no signs of caterpillars, and the box plants began to revive.
Application Frequency
This product has been a lifesaver for our buxus trees, following the instructions ensures it works effectively.
Safety for Plants and Environment
The product is fantastic, with the box recovering by at least 80%, bringing a pleasant surprise as new growth emerges.
#2

BugClear Ultra 2 Insecticide, for flowers and shrubs, Concentrate, 200 ML, Red

Rating
9.4
Target Pests
Application Frequency
Target Pests
I could actually see the caterpillars dropping off after spraying, and my long-established plants are showing signs of recovery.
Application Frequency
Effective when used regularly and appropriately, it rescued my topiary buxus from the highly destructive Boxwood Caterpillar.

The BugClear Ultra 2 Insecticide is a versatile and effective solution for gardeners dealing with a wide variety of pests, including caterpillars. This concentrate contains rapeseed oil and pyrethrins, making it a non-neonicotinoid option, which is generally safer for beneficial insects and the environment. Its formulation in liquid form allows for easy application on flowers, roses, ornamental plants, and shrubs.

The product is effective against pests at all stages of their lifecycle, from eggs to adults, providing comprehensive control over infestations. Gardeners will appreciate its broad-spectrum efficacy against aphids, greenflies, blackflies, mites, whiteflies, scale insects, mealy bugs, lily leaf beetles, and leaf hoppers in addition to caterpillars. One of the main strengths of the BugClear Ultra 2 is its dual active ingredients, which enhance its effectiveness.

The concentrate's 200 ML volume is suitable for home gardeners, though it might require more frequent application depending on the pest pressure and plant coverage area. Users have rated it highly, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars across 660 reviews, indicating satisfaction with its performance. However, it is important to note that, as with any chemical insecticide, users should follow application instructions carefully to avoid potential damage to plants and minimize environmental impact. BugClear Ultra 2 is USDA-approved, adding an extra layer of trust for users concerned about safety and efficacy. This insecticide is a solid choice for those looking to protect their gardens from a wide range of pests, including caterpillars, with the additional reassurance of being a non-neonicotinoid product.

Rating
9.4
Target Pests
Application Frequency
Target Pests
I could actually see the caterpillars dropping off after spraying, and my long-established plants are showing signs of recovery.
Application Frequency
Effective when used regularly and appropriately, it rescued my topiary buxus from the highly destructive Boxwood Caterpillar.
#3

Thuricide HPC BT 8oz Caterpillar & Worm Control

Rating
9.1
Target Pests
Target Pests
After one application, the kitchen garden looked like the beaches of WWII... but for caterpillars. Shrivelled up caterpillar corpses everywhere.

The Thuricide HPC BT 8oz Caterpillar & Worm Control by Southern Ag is a product designed for lawn and garden use, aimed at controlling caterpillars and worms. One of its main strengths is the active ingredient, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which is known for its effectiveness in targeting caterpillars without harming beneficial insects, plants, or the environment. This makes it a safe option for organic gardening and environmentally conscious users.

The liquid formulation allows for easy application, ensuring thorough coverage of the affected areas. Users generally appreciate the product's efficiency, as reflected in its high customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 876 reviews, indicating strong user satisfaction. Its compliance with USDA specifications adds credibility to its quality and safety standards.

However, the product's small liquid volume (8 oz) might require frequent purchases for larger gardens, which could be a drawback for some users. Additionally, while it is effective against caterpillars and worms, it may not cover a broader range of pests, limiting its versatility. Thus, Thuricide HPC BT 8oz is a reliable and safe caterpillar control product, particularly suitable for small to medium-sized gardens and environmentally conscious users, but it may require repeated purchases for extensive areas.

Rating
9.1
Target Pests
Target Pests
After one application, the kitchen garden looked like the beaches of WWII... but for caterpillars. Shrivelled up caterpillar corpses everywhere.

Buying Guide for the Best Caterpillar Killer

Choosing the right caterpillar killer can be crucial for maintaining the health and beauty of your garden. The right product will help you effectively manage caterpillar infestations without causing harm to your plants or the environment. When selecting a caterpillar killer, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you pick the best fit for your needs. Here are the key specs and explanations to help guide your decision-making process.
Active IngredientThe active ingredient is the chemical or biological component that kills the caterpillars. This spec is important because it determines the effectiveness and safety of the product. Common active ingredients include Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), spinosad, and chemical insecticides. Bt is a natural bacterium that targets caterpillars specifically and is safe for other insects and animals, making it ideal for organic gardening. Spinosad is another natural option that is effective but can be harmful to beneficial insects like bees. Chemical insecticides are usually more potent but can have broader environmental impacts. Choose an active ingredient based on your preference for natural versus chemical solutions and the specific caterpillar problem you are facing.
FormulationFormulation refers to the physical form of the caterpillar killer, such as liquid, powder, or granules. This spec is important because it affects how you apply the product and its ease of use. Liquid formulations are typically easy to apply with a sprayer and provide quick coverage, making them suitable for large infestations. Powders can be dusted directly onto plants and are good for targeting specific areas. Granules are often used for soil application and provide long-lasting protection. Choose a formulation based on the size of your garden, the severity of the infestation, and your preferred method of application.
Target PestsTarget pests refer to the specific types of caterpillars that the product is designed to kill. This spec is important because not all caterpillar killers are effective against all types of caterpillars. Some products are broad-spectrum and can kill a wide range of caterpillar species, while others are more specialized. Identify the type of caterpillars causing damage in your garden and choose a product that specifically targets those pests. This ensures maximum effectiveness and minimizes harm to non-target species.
Application FrequencyApplication frequency indicates how often you need to apply the product to maintain its effectiveness. This spec is important because it affects the level of maintenance required and the overall cost of using the product. Some caterpillar killers need to be applied weekly, while others may provide protection for several weeks or even months. Consider how much time you can dedicate to garden maintenance and choose a product with an application frequency that fits your schedule. For busy gardeners, a product with a longer-lasting effect may be more convenient.
Safety for Plants and EnvironmentSafety for plants and the environment refers to the potential impact of the caterpillar killer on your garden and the surrounding ecosystem. This spec is important because you want to protect your plants without causing harm to beneficial insects, animals, or the environment. Organic and natural products like Bt are generally safer for plants and the environment, while chemical insecticides may pose more risks. Consider the overall health of your garden and the local ecosystem when choosing a product. If you have a wildlife-friendly garden or are concerned about environmental impact, opt for a safer, more eco-friendly option.