Saddleback Caterpillars-Get Rid of Them

Q: I discovered four saddleback caterpillars while deadheading my Knockout roses. I want them gone! Should I get rid of the roses?

A: I have good news! Saddleback caterpillars rarely reinfest the plants where you find them. They are very sporadic in the landscape. I’ve found them on canna, iris, pear and redbud. Leave your roses alone and simply wear gloves and keep an eye out for the little green creatures on other plants while you work. Natural predators do a good job keeping their numbers in check. I have pictures of other common venomous caterpillars at http://www.walterreeves.com/insects-and-animals/venomous-poisonous-caterpillars-photos/.