I think I’ll try doing a web search for what UV wavelength makes hornworms fluoresce best...
My slightly “bluish” head worn LED light makes their green bodies stand out from the plant branches they are on. Although, I think the Sevin finally did them all in.
I noticed some small birds eating “something” off my Asian Squash, late this afternoon. I left ‘em alone! Checking at dusk, the birds were gone and I didn’t see anything that might be eating the plants, so, I guess the birds got ‘em. Yay!
Based on the provided information, the optimal ultraviolet (UV) wavelength for making hornworms fluoresce is 365 nm. This wavelength is noted for producing strong fluorescence and minimal visible violet light leakage, which enhances the visibility of the glowing effect. While some sources mention 395 nm as effective for finding hornworms at night, the 365 nm wavelength is specifically highlighted as the best for strong fluorescence and detail, making it ideal for photographing or clearly identifying the insects. This wavelength is also recommended for other applications involving fluorescence, such as mineral and biological specimen examination.
I forgot to mention earlier that the birdies were all over my one good Opo plant too. I thought it was “done” for the year, but that one has bounced back and is flowering again a bit. Dunno if we have enough summer left to get useable fruits off it or not, but, maybe... They are best consumed “young” anyway.
The other, young Opo that seemed to be dying a few days ago, is barely hanging on, but, the stem near the base is still green, so, 20%(?) chance it recovers? It’s just static now - not growing, but not (it appears) getting worse.
The biggest, healthiest (didn’t get attacked by hornworms) Mortgage Lifter tomato plant is flowering, but only a little. Maybe that’s good for getting big fruits? Many of the other varieties have fruits on them that have resumed ripening, now that daytime highs are back under 90 deg. We should be hip deep in tomatoes soon!
Consider using Bt on your tomato plants. It will kill the hornworms and southern armyworms without killing any beneficial pollinators or hornworm parasites. (Yes, tomatoes are mostly air pollinated but bees do visit them!)
https://www.familyplotgarden.com/qa-ndash-just-how-safe-is-sevin-insecticide.html
Cool weather is here! Good growing!