Inchworms aren’t that strong, so you can use aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or something similar as a lid so poking holes is easier. Pick a spot for it on a windowsill or near a window so your inchworm gets plenty of sunlight.
Eggs typically hatch when the weather rises to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius). [3] X Research source When they first hatch, they’re very, very small, which means they’re harder to find. They usually take about three months to grow full-sized (about an inch long, or 2. 5 cm). [4] X Research source
Remember which tree or plant you found them on, or at least what type it is. This way you can collect more leaves if needed to keep your inchworm fed.
If it’s too cold or hot outside to keep your window, at least crack it open a few times throughout the day. Eventually they will cocoon themselves and then turn into moths. Keep their area moist and with sufficient light; they will turn into moths in about a few weeks. When that happens, you need to let the moths go outside. Simply unseal the container in the area that you originally found the inchworm.
Since you’re probably searching during the spring, plants and trees may still be blossoming. If so, you can also check the buds for signs of munching, since inchworms will eat those, too. [9] X Research source
You may also find them on the ground, but this usually happens when they’ve fully matured and are ready to cocoon underground. So if you’re looking for inchworms to keep as pets, these are no good, since they’re ready to change into moths.
If you’re looking in trees, also check the plants growing around its base. The inchworms may have worked their way down to them. [14] X Research source
Inchworms are commonly attracted to elm, fir, hickory, maple, oak, and pine trees. Since they also eat fruit, they can often be found in berry bushes and fruit trees. [17] X Research source
Individual inchworms don’t eat much, so if you only find sporadic leaves that seem to be eaten, the population is probably small. [18] X Research source If the leaves in question are confined to trees, the trees may offer enough food to support the population without widespread damage. [19] X Research source Smaller plant life, like garden plants and bushes, are more at risk, since they offer less material for the inchworms to feed on.
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Bacillus thuringiensis only affects insects, making it an ideal solution for gardens, fruit trees, berry bushes, or other crops. Treat the area again next spring to eliminate any eggs that may have been fertilized during your last infestation. Different types of inchworm reproduce at different times, but all types hatch in spring. [22] X Research source
