If you’ve noticed more silky webbing in your trees than usual this spring, you’re not imagining things. Tent caterpillars are having a major comeback in the Edmonton region, with 2025 shaping up to be one of the most active seasons in decades.
While they’re not dangerous to people and don’t typically kill healthy trees, tent caterpillars can cause defoliation, stress trees, and create an unpleasant mess in yards and outdoor spaces. At Birch Fumigators, we offer a safe and effective solution for homeowners who want to protect their trees early in the season—with non-toxic tree spraying using neem-based TreeAzin.
What Are Tent Caterpillars and Why Are There So Many This Year?
Tent caterpillars are the larvae of moths that build communal silk webs—or “tents”—in the forks and branches of trees. From there, they emerge to feed on leaves, especially on popular ornamental trees like chokecherry, apple, and aspen.
This year’s warm, dry spring has created ideal conditions for the caterpillars to thrive. Without cool or wet weather to suppress their populations, Edmonton is seeing one of the most active outbreaks in nearly 30 years, according to local reports.
Should You Be Worried About Tree Damage?
In most cases, a healthy, mature tree can survive a single season of defoliation caused by tent caterpillars. However, repeated defoliation—especially over several years—can weaken trees, reduce growth, and make them more vulnerable to other pests or diseases.
Smaller or newly planted trees are more at risk, and even in less severe cases, infestations can:
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Leave your trees looking thin or damaged
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Cause caterpillars and droppings to fall on decks, patios, and vehicles
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Spread easily from one yard to another
Taking early, preventive steps helps reduce the stress on your trees and avoid escalation as the season progresses.
Our Safe, Non-Toxic Tree Spraying Solution
Birch Fumigators uses TreeAzin, a Health Canada-approved product made from neem tree extract. It works by disrupting the caterpillars’ ability to feed and grow—stopping infestations without harming pollinators, pets, or people.
Why choose TreeAzin?
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Non-toxic and environmentally responsible
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Proven effective against tent caterpillars and other tree pests
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Ideal for residential yards and ornamental trees
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Applied with timing that targets caterpillars early in their life cycle
We’ll assess your trees and apply treatments only where needed. Learn more about our tree pest control services.
Why Edmonton Homeowners Trust Birch
At Birch, we combine local knowledge with decades of experience dealing with Alberta’s seasonal pests. Our team offers:
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Expert timing and product selection
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Honest advice (we’ll never recommend treatment if it’s not needed)
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Friendly service with a focus on long-term tree health
We also keep our approach eco-conscious and family-safe, so you don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals or unnecessary spraying.
Book Your Spring Tree Spray Today
If you’re seeing caterpillars or webbing, it’s a good idea to take action early. Spring is the best time to apply treatment—before populations grow and the damage sets in.
Contact Birch Fumigators to schedule your tree inspection and learn if a non-toxic spray is right for your yard. We’re here to help you protect your trees and enjoy a stress-free outdoor season.