WELCOMING OCTOBER 2025

Welcoming October: A Month of Crisp Air, Cozy Vibes, and a Dash of Spookiness Hello, fellow autumn enthusiasts! As the calendar flips from September 30 to October 1, we’re officially diving into the heart of fall. The leaves are turning those fiery shades of red and gold, pumpkins are popping up on every porch, and there’s that unmistakable chill in the air that makes a hot cider feel like pure magic. Whether you’re here for the haunted hayrides, the harvest festivals, or just the excuse to layer up in your favorite sweater, October has a way of wrapping us in its enchanting embrace. Let’s kick off the month with some highlights, fun facts, and a calendar tease to get you in the spirit. Why October Feels Like Fall’s Grand Entrance October isn’t just any month—it’s named after the Latin word octo, meaning “eight,” because it was the eighth month in the ancient Roman calendar (back when they skipped winter altogether). Fast-forward to today, and it’s the tenth month, but it still holds that transitional magic. In the Northern Hemisphere, it’s when the Harvest Moon rises—peaking on October 6, 2025, at 11:47 p.m.—bathing the world in a golden glow perfect for late-night stargazing or early-morning walks through crunching leaves.

Fun fact: This full moon is called the Hunter’s Moon, ideal for spotting game in the fields, and it’s flanked by two meteor showers—the Draconids (early October) and Orionids (late October)—for some cosmic fireworks.

And let’s not forget the folklore: October is prime time for Jack Frost’s first visits, whispering promises of snowflakes on the horizon.

It’s a month that balances the warmth of summer’s end with winter’s playful nudge.October 2025: Holidays and Observances to Mark on Your CalendarThis year, October is bursting with celebrations—from federal holidays to quirky “national days” that beg for Instagram-worthy moments. Here’s a curated snapshot of key dates to plan around. (Pro tip: Use these for everything from family gatherings to solo self-care rituals.)

DateHoliday/ObservanceWhy It Rocks
October 1International Coffee Day & National Pumpkin Spice DayFuel your fall obsession with a spiced latte—because who needs an excuse?
October 2World Farm Animals Day & National Boyfriend DayHug a pet (or your partner) and reflect on the unsung heroes of our food chain.
October 6Harvest Moon PeakStep outside for a moonlit picnic; it’s the closest full moon to the autumn equinox.
October 10World Mental Health Day & National Chess DayPrioritize your mind with a strategy game—checkmate stress!
October 13Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples’ Day (federal holiday)A day for reflection: Celebrate Native cultures with events or readings on history’s true narratives. 2 sources
October 16World Food Day & Boss’s DayCook up gratitude—thank your leader with a homemade treat.
October 17National Pasta DayTwirl some carbs in celebration; October is National Pasta Month, after all!
October 20World Osteoporosis Day & National Red Wine DayToast to strong bones (in moderation, of course).
October 27National Make a Difference DayVolunteer or spread kindness—small acts add up big.
October 31HalloweenThe grand finale: Costumes, candy, and carving pumpkins under the stars.

Beyond the dailies, the whole month vibes with themes like Breast Cancer Awareness Month (wear pink!), National Pretzel Month (twist into snack heaven), and Domestic Violence Awareness Month (empower through education).

Weekly spotlights include Free Speech Week (mid-October) and National Baking Week—perfect for whipping up pumpkin pies.

For the spooky side, the Halloween season stretches all month with “Frankenstein Friday” vibes and Howl at the Moon Night.

Fun Facts to Spice Up Your October Chats

  • Meteor Magic: Catch the Orionids shower around October 21–22, remnants of Halley’s Comet streaking across the sky—up to 20 meteors per hour if you’re in a dark spot.
  • Historical Hits: The five-day workweek was born in October 1926, and the U.S. Naval Academy opened its doors on October 10, 1845. Navy Day (Oct 27) salutes that legacy.
  • Global Goodness: From Bat Appreciation Month to Learning Disabilities Awareness Month, October reminds us to celebrate the quirky and advocate for the overlooked.

A Cozy Challenge: Your October Bucket ListTo make this month unforgettable, here’s a simple starter list:

  1. Harvest a Haul: Visit a pumpkin patch and snap that obligatory “I’m basic” photo.
  2. Moonlit Adventure: On the 6th, host a full-moon gathering—s’mores optional.
  3. Bake the Season: Try a pumpkin cheesecake (National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day is Oct 21) or a pretzel braid for the month’s salty-sweet theme.
  4. Give Back: Join Make a Difference Day on the 27th—plant bulbs, donate books, or just call a friend.
  5. Spookify Your Space: Start with subtle decor now; by the 31st, go full haunted house.

October, you’re a whirlwind of wonder—may it bring you more treats than tricks, more warmth than wind, and endless reasons to smile. What’s your must-do this month? Drop it in the comments (or just daydream it). Until next time, stay groovy. Cheers to the tenth month,

Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You

  1. SUNDAY
  2. IT’S SATURDAY
  3. WOW IT’S WEDNESDAY
  4. HELLO MONDAY
  5. HAPPY LABOR DAY
  6. Happy 4th of July
  7. Canning Potatoes
  8. CANNING DRY BEANS WITHOUT SOAKING
  9. HOW TO MAKE SWEET TEA
  10. BANANA BREAD
  11. GREEN TOMATO WORMS
  12. HELLO JUNE 2025
  13. HELLO MAY 2025
  14. HELLO APRIL 2025
  15. DAY LIGHT SAVINGS
  16. HELLO MARCH 2025
  17. HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025
  18. MERRY CHRISTMAS 2024
  19. CHRISTMAS SURPRISE
  20. MERRY CHRISTMAS
  21. HELLO DECEMBER
  22. WHY FAMILY TRADITIONS MATTER
  23. My Crochet Journey
  24. Hello World

“Thank you so much for taking the time to read our blog post! Your support and interest mean the world to us, and we are grateful for every moment you spend here. Stay tuned for more, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!”

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

SUNDAY

Sunday: A Day to Refuel Your Soul and Embrace Gratitude

Sundays have a special kind of magic, don’t they? The week’s hustle fades into the background, and the world seems to slow down just enough for us to catch our breath. It’s a day to pause, reflect, and refuel your soul with gratitude, love, and connection. So, take a deep breath, let the worries slip away, and let’s dive into why Sundays are the perfect day to recharge and celebrate life’s blessings.

A Moment to Breathe

In the midst of our busy lives, Sunday offers a gentle invitation to slow down. It’s a day to step away from the to-do list and endless notifications and just be. Start your morning with a deep, intentional breath. Feel the air fill your lungs, grounding you in the present moment. Maybe it’s sipping your coffee slowly while watching the sunrise or taking a quiet walk in nature. Whatever it is, let this be your time to reconnect with yourself. This simple act of slowing down can recharge your spirit and remind you of the beauty in the present.

Gratitude: The Heart of Sunday

Sundays are a perfect time to reflect on your blessings. No matter how challenging life gets, there’s always something to be grateful for – a warm bed, a kind word from a friend, or the laughter of someone you love. Take a moment to jot down three thing you’re thankful for today. Maybe it’ the roof over your head, the meal you shared, or simply the fact that you’re here, alive, and full of potential. Gratitude has a way of shifting our perspective, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. When we focus on what we have rather than what we lack, our souls light up with contentment.

Love, Laugh, Live

Sundays are made for connection. Gather with friends and family, whether it’s a big brunch, a cozy movie night, or a simple phone call to catch up. These moments of togetherness are what fuel our hearts. Share stories, laugh until your sides hurt, and let love fill the spaces between you. Laughter is medicine for the soul, and there’s nothing like the joy of being surrounded by those who matter most. If you’re spending the day solo, treat yourself with the same kindness – curl up with a good book, dance to your favorite music, or indulge in a hobby that sparks joy. Live fully in these moments, because they’re what make life rich.

A Day to Refuel

Think of Sunday as your soul’s pit stop. Just like a car needs fuel to keep going, your spirit needs care to thrive. Whether it’ through prayer, mediation, or simply sitting in silence, take time to nurture your inner world. Reflect on the week behind you – what went well, what challenged you, and what you’re carrying into the days ahead. Sundays are a chance to reset, to let go of what’s heavy, and to fill your heart with hope and possibility.

Embrace the Joy

Above all, Sundays are about joy. They’re about savoring the little things – a warm hug, a shared meal, the sound of birds outside your window. They’re about laughing until you cry, loving fiercely, and living with intention. So, as you move through your Sunday, hold space for gratitude. Celebrate your blessings, big and small. Surround yourself with people who lift you up and let yourself feel the lightness of simply being. Take a deep breath. Relax. Enjoy your friends and family. Love, laugh, live. This Sunday, let your soul refuel, and carry that warmth into the week ahead. Here’s to a day that reminds us of what truly matters.

Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You

  1. IT’S SATURDAY
  2. WOW IT’S WEDNESDAY
  3. HELLO MONDAY
  4. HAPPY LABOR DAY
  5. Happy 4th of July
  6. Canning Potatoes
  7. CANNING DRY BEANS WITHOUT SOAKING
  8. HOW TO MAKE SWEET TEA
  9. BANANA BREAD
  10. GREEN TOMATO WORMS
  11. HELLO JUNE 2025
  12. HELLO MAY 2025
  13. HELLO APRIL 2025
  14. DAY LIGHT SAVINGS
  15. HELLO MARCH 2025
  16. HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025
  17. MERRY CHRISTMAS 2024
  18. CHRISTMAS SURPRISE
  19. MERRY CHRISTMAS
  20. HELLO DECEMBER
  21. WHY FAMILY TRADITIONS MATTER
  22. My Crochet Journey
  23. Hello World

“Thank you so much for taking the time to read our blog post! Your support and interest mean the world to us, and we are grateful for every moment you spend here. Stay tuned for more, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!”

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

IT’S SATURDAY

It’s Saturday: Embrace the Day with Loved Ones

Happy Saturday! The weekend is here, and there’s no better time to slow down, soak in the moment, and spend quality time with the people who matter most. Whether it’s your family, friends, partner, or even your furry companion, today is all about connection, relaxation, and making memories that warm the heart.

Why Saturdays Are Special

Saturdays have a unique vibe. The workweek’s hustle is behind you, and Sunday’s “prep for Monday” mindset hasn’t kicked in yet. It’s a day to breathe, unwind, and just be. There’s no need to rush or check off a to-do list. Instead, focus on what brings you joy and strengthens your bonds with those you love.

Ideas to Chill and Relax

Here are a few simple ways to make the most of this beautiful Saturday:

  1. Morning Moments: Start the day with a leisurely breakfast. Whip up some pancakes, sip coffee together, or head to a cozy café. The key? No hurry. Let the conversation flow and enjoy the little moments.
  2. Get Outside: Take a walk in the park, have a picnic, or just sit in the backyard with a good playlist. Nature has a way of melting stress and sparking meaningful chats with your loved ones.
  3. Movie Marathon or Game Night: Pick a favorite movie series or binge a new show with snacks galore. If you’re feeling playful, dust off some board games or video games for a fun, low-key evening.
  4. Cook Together: Nothing says love like a home-cooked meal. Try a new recipe with your partner, kids, or friends. It doesn’t have to be fancy—pizza night or taco-making can be just as memorable.
  5. Just Be: Sometimes, the best moments are the quiet ones. Cuddle up, share stories, or simply sit in comfortable silence. Being present is the ultimate gift you can give.

Make It About Connection

Today isn’t about grand gestures or over-the-top plans. It’s about the small, intentional moments that remind your loved ones they’re cherished. Laugh together, share a hug, or reminisce about old times. These are the threads that weave your relationships tighter.

A Gentle Reminder

As you enjoy this Saturday, let go of any pressure to “do it all.” Life can be hectic, but today, give yourself permission to pause. The emails can wait. The chores can wait. What matters is right in front of you—your people, your peace, your joy.

So, grab your favorite people (or pets!), kick back, and make this Saturday one to remember. Here’s to love, laughter, and a whole lot of chill vibes. Enjoy the day!

Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You

  1. WOW IT’S WEDNESDAY
  2. HELLO MONDAY
  3. HAPPY LABOR DAY
  4. Happy 4th of July
  5. Canning Potatoes
  6. CANNING DRY BEANS WITHOUT SOAKING
  7. HOW TO MAKE SWEET TEA
  8. BANANA BREAD
  9. GREEN TOMATO WORMS
  10. HELLO JUNE 2025
  11. HELLO MAY 2025
  12. HELLO APRIL 2025
  13. DAY LIGHT SAVINGS
  14. HELLO MARCH 2025
  15. HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025
  16. MERRY CHRISTMAS 2024
  17. CHRISTMAS SURPRISE
  18. MERRY CHRISTMAS
  19. HELLO DECEMBER
  20. WHY FAMILY TRADITIONS MATTER
  21. My Crochet Journey
  22. Hello World

“Thank you so much for taking the time to read our blog post! Your support and interest mean the world to us, and we are grateful for every moment you spend here. Stay tuned for more, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!”

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

WOW IT’S WEDNESDAY

Wow, It’s Wednesday Already: Navigating the Midweek Whirlwind

It’s Wednesday, and part of me is thinking, “Wow, it’s Wednesday already?” the week seems to slip through our fingers like sand, doesn’t it? One minute you’re hipping your Monday morning coffee, bracing for the days ahead, and the next, you’re halfway to the weekend, wondering how time pulled a fast one on you. Let’s unpack that fleeting, disorienting feeling and why Wednesdays hit us with such a mix of surprise, relief, and urgency.

Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You

  1. HELLO MONDAY
  2. HAPPY LABOR DAY
  3. Happy 4th of July
  4. Canning Potatoes
  5. CANNING DRY BEANS WITHOUT SOAKING
  6. HOW TO MAKE SWEET TEA
  7. BANANA BREAD
  8. GREEN TOMATO WORMS
  9. HELLO JUNE 2025
  10. HELLO MAY 2025
  11. HELLO APRIL 2025
  12. DAY LIGHT SAVINGS
  13. HELLO MARCH 2025
  14. HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025
  15. MERRY CHRISTMAS 2024
  16. CHRISTMAS SURPRISE
  17. MERRY CHRISTMAS
  18. HELLO DECEMBER
  19. WHY FAMILY TRADITIONS MATTER
  20. My Crochet Journey
  21. Hello World

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

HELLO MONDAY

Absolutely, a fresh Monday to kick off the week with renewed energy and focus! May you tackle your new goals with clarity and determination, blessed with success and growth. Here’s to crushing it!

Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You

  1. HAPPY LABOR DAY
  2. Happy 4th of July
  3. Canning Potatoes
  4. CANNING DRY BEANS WITHOUT SOAKING
  5. HOW TO MAKE SWEET TEA
  6. BANANA BREAD
  7. GREEN TOMATO WORMS
  8. HELLO JUNE 2025
  9. HELLO MAY 2025
  10. HELLO APRIL 2025
  11. DAY LIGHT SAVINGS
  12. HELLO MARCH 2025
  13. HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025
  14. MERRY CHRISTMAS 2024
  15. CHRISTMAS SURPRISE
  16. MERRY CHRISTMAS
  17. HELLO DECEMBER
  18. WHY FAMILY TRADITIONS MATTER
  19. My Crochet Journey
  20. Hello World

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

HELLO SEPTEMBER 2025

Hello September! A new month brings fresh starts, cozy vibes, and the promise of autumn. Let’s embrace the changing leaves, cooler days, and new opportunities. What are your September goals?

Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You

  1. HAPPY LABOR DAY
  2. Happy 4th of July
  3. Canning Potatoes
  4. CANNING DRY BEANS WITHOUT SOAKING
  5. HOW TO MAKE SWEET TEA
  6. BANANA BREAD
  7. GREEN TOMATO WORMS
  8. HELLO JUNE 2025
  9. HELLO MAY 2025
  10. HELLO APRIL 2025
  11. DAY LIGHT SAVINGS
  12. HELLO MARCH 2025
  13. HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025
  14. MERRY CHRISTMAS 2024
  15. CHRISTMAS SURPRISE
  16. MERRY CHRISTMAS
  17. HELLO DECEMBER
  18. WHY FAMILY TRADITIONS MATTER
  19. My Crochet Journey
  20. Hello World

THANK YOU FOR STOPPING BY! BLESSINGS MARGARITA & STACE

Happy 4th of July

As we celebrate this special day, may we remember the bravery of those who made our freedom possible. Happy 4th of July to you and your family.

Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You

  1. Canning Potatoes
  2. CANNING DRY BEANS WITHOUT SOAKING
  3. HOW TO MAKE SWEET TEA
  4. BANANA BREAD
  5. GREEN TOMATO WORMS
  6. HELLO JUNE 2025
  7. HELLO MAY 2025
  8. HELLO APRIL 2025
  9. DAY LIGHT SAVINGS
  10. HELLO MARCH 2025
  11. HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025
  12. MERRY CHRISTMAS 2024
  13. CHRISTMAS SURPRISE
  14. MERRY CHRISTMAS
  15. HELLO DECEMBER
  16. WHY FAMILY TRADITIONS MATTER
  17. My Crochet Journey
  18. Hello World

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

HOW TO MAKE SWEET TEA

I grew up on sweet tea at every meal… I can’t remember ever drinking milk at a meal other than breakfast. Never would you open a southern refrigerator and not find a pitcher of sweet tea! I’m not sure how old I was before I realized tea wasn’t always served sweet.

Growing up in South Texas we drank sweet tea all day long, every day. 

Sweet tea has been a staple since time began in our family. Even today we kept a pitcher of sweet tea in the refrigerator. We love sweet tea!

When friends and family members come over, they always know there is a pitcher of sweet tea in the refrigerator. 

Drinking sweet tea without ice is a “no-no” in south Texas! Sweet tea just doesn’t taste right unless it is chilled with ice. Lukewarm tea is horrible. 

If you’re from the South, you probably are wondering why we even need a “recipe” for sweet tea! But guess what, not everyone knows how to make the perfect sweet tea. So I thought I would share how I make sweet tea. 

Sweet tea isn’t just a process of stirring a spoonful of sugar into a cold glass of tea. Instead, it is typically made by adding sugar to a quick-brewed black tea while the tea is still hot. Sweet tea is always served ice-cold, and sometimes flavored with lemon. 

I have a small saucepan that I have used for years to brew only tea in. The saucepan always sits on the stove… just waiting for the next time I make tea. Then I pour the brewed tea into a gallon pitcher with sugar and stir in. Add cold tap water to fill the pitch and refrigerate. 

Basic Ingredients

  • 8 small tea bags (or 2 Family size)
  • 1 gallon water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • Lemon slices (optional

Fill the saucepan with water and tea bags (pull paper tabs off tea bags). Bring to a boil. Turn off heat and strain tea into 1 gallon pitcher with sugar. The hot tea will dissolve the sugar. Add cold tap water till the pitcher is full and stir.  Place in the refrigerator to cool.

Here is a video I made a few years back on making sweet tea.

Let us know how you like your sweet tea or if you like our recipe.

Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You

  1. BANANA BREAD
  2. GREEN TOMATO WORMS
  3. HELLO JUNE 2025
  4. HELLO MAY 2025
  5. HELLO APRIL 2025
  6. DAY LIGHT SAVINGS
  7. HELLO MARCH 2025
  8. HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025
  9. MERRY CHRISTMAS 2024
  10. CHRISTMAS SURPRISE
  11. MERRY CHRISTMAS
  12. HELLO DECEMBER
  13. WHY FAMILY TRADITIONS MATTER
  14. My Crochet Journey
  15. Hello World

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

BANANA BREAD

This quick and easy banana bread recipe taste delicious and is just like grandma’s old fashioned classic banana bread. I have made this recipe for years. The recipe has been passed down for generations in my family.

It takes only 10 minutes or so to make this moist banana bread before putting it in the oven. In addition, this recipe only uses simple ingredients such as flour, eggs, sugar and of course, RIPE bananas.

The key to great banana bread is RIPE bananas! Not green bananas. Not even perfectly yellow bananas. The best bananas (for banana bread) are those bananas that are soft and have lots of small black and brown spots on the yellow banana peel. Unripe green or yellow bananas have too much starch and are not very flavorful. In contrast, ripe bananas are sweeter, softer and have much more delicious banana flavor. Therefore, the best tasting banana breads are made with ripe bananas!!

As you probably know, banana bread is a type of “quick Bread.” Quick breads use baking soda and / or baking powder to rise versus using yeast. Because quick breads rely on baking soda/powder, they rise more quickly than yeast breads. Most banana breads need only 65-70 minutes or so in the oven before they have risen and are fully cooked. Therefore, great tasting and most banana breads are easy and relatively quick to make! They are a perfect dessert or lunch snack.

FYI – This banana bread recipe takes me about 10-15 minutes to prepare and clean up. Please be aware that this is an oven-baked banana bread recipe. It is not made with a bread machine.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs or “Just Egg” plant-based egg
  • 1 cup mashed bananas
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 1 teaspoon soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 Tablespoon yeast
  • 1 Tablespoon vinegar plus 1/2 cup of milk

Sift together flour, soda, yeast and salt. cream shortening and sugar into dry ingredients. Add eggs, one at a time and beat until fluffy. Add bananas to mixture. Bake in greased and floured loaf pans at 350 degrees until done.

Equipment needed 

  • Measuring cup and spoons
  • Measuring cup and spoons
  • Mixing bowl, 
  • 9×5 inch metal bread pan
  • Oven mitts
  • Silicon spatula

My family loves this banana bread. They enjoy putting butter on it while it’s still warm. Hope you enjoy this banana bread as much as we do.

Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You

  1. GREEN TOMATO WORMS
  2. HELLO JUNE 2025
  3. HELLO MAY 2025
  4. HELLO APRIL 2025
  5. DAY LIGHT SAVINGS
  6. HELLO MARCH 2025
  7. HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025
  8. MERRY CHRISTMAS 2024
  9. CHRISTMAS SURPRISE
  10. MERRY CHRISTMAS
  11. HELLO DECEMBER
  12. WHY FAMILY TRADITIONS MATTER
  13. My Crochet Journey
  14. Hello World

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

GREEN TOMATO WORMS

I was in our garden and there it was a big green tomato worm! It aet a whole bell pepper. Now the fight was on. In one week, I found about 30 of them dang green worms.

One of my most despised pests is the Tomato Hornworm. Tomato Hornworms are really big green alien-like caterpillars that can munch through and devastate your vegetable garden. The tomato hornworm is a large green caterpillar with a horn-like tail that does tremendous damage to tomato plants. The hornworms have distinctive creamy-white V-shaped stripes along their sides. growing up to 4 or 5 inches in length, known for their voracious appetite. These common garden pests can cause severe damage in vegetable gardens, particularly in midsummer. However, the destructive caterpillars can be challenging to spot on tomato plants because their green color blends in with tomato foliage.

Most of the time I spot the signs of a hornworm before I see the actual caterpillar. The first things you will notice about a hornworms presence is denuded branches and fruits with huge sections eaten out of them. Hornworms love to eat foliage and since they are such large caterpillars, they have a big appetite which means they poop all over! So, watch for bits of black slimy frass (droppings) on the lower leaves or on the ground.

Getting rid of tomato hornworms for good isn’t easy. It takes patience and vigilance to spot the giant fat green worm-like insects. Usually, handpicking the worms and dropping them in soapy water is the most effective way to eradicate them. However, there are several ways to prevent tomato hornworms or control their numbers.

Tomato hornworms can deprive a plant of its leaves leaving them stripped of foliage and vulnerable to sunburn. In severe infestations, they may also feed on the green fruit of tomato plants, causing direct harm to the crop. They also feed on other plants in the Solanaceae family, including peppers, potatoes, and eggplants.

Tomato hornworms undergo complete metamorphosis, transitioning from egg to larva (caterpillar) to pupa and, finally, to an adult sphinx moth. After feeding and growing as caterpillars, they burrow into the soil to pupate and eventually emerge as moths.

Tomato hornworms develop into large, robust moths known as “tomato hornworm moths” or “five-spotted hawkmoths” (Manduca quinquemaculata). These moths are brown heavy-bodied insects with a wingspan of around 4 to 5 inches. They and feature distinctive yellow spots on the sides of the abdomen.

Natural predators of tomato hornworms include various birds, such as sparrows and finches, as well as beneficial insects like parasitoid wasps, which lay their eggs on the caterpillars.

Tomato hornworms leave behind dark droppings, known as “frass.” You may find these droppings on leaves or the ground near where they are feeding.

Tomato hornworms can be challenging to identify on plants because they blend in well with their environment. However, if you spot one under the leaves or crawling on the stems, you can safely remove the caterpillar by hand. Tomato hornworms are harmless and won’t sting you, despite their stinger-like tail, and they are not venomous to humans

One of the first signs of a tomato hornworm infestation is extensive defoliation. The caterpillars can quickly strip tomato plants of their foliage, leaving behind denuded stems and branches. This defoliation not only impacts the plant’s ability to photosynthesize but also makes the fruit more vulnerable to sunburn.

As they feed, tomato hornworms often leave telltale signs behind. You might notice bare stems and branches where the caterpillars have feasted. Also, they typically excrete large amounts of dark droppings called “frass,” which can be another indicator of their presence.

In severe infestations, tomato hornworms can also feed on the green fruit of tomato plants, causing direct damage to the crop. Their chewing results in irregular holes or scars on the surface of tomatoes.

Tomato hornworms are not exclusively tomato-eaters. They also feed on other plants in the Solanaceae family, which includes peppers, potatoes, and eggplants. So, if you grow any of these hornworm hosts nearby, you might find these caterpillars on them as well.

The tomato hornworm life cycle consists of four phases — egg, caterpillar (larva), pupa, and adult moth. The eggs hatch about seven days after the female lays them. From when the caterpillars hatch until they are full grown it takes around four weeks, and the adult moths live for 10 to 30 days.

During the larval stage, tomato hornworms generally stay on the same plant, devouring the leaves thanks to their voracious appetite. Through most of the larval stages, the tomato hornworm retains its identifying features — creamy white V-markings and a black horn tail.

The third stage of the tomato hornworm life cycle is when it goes underground to pupate. The pupa is a large, reddish-brown segmented cigar-like object with a loop at one end.

As their name suggests, the tomato hornworm favors tomato plants and can quickly devour entire leaves, small stems, and even parts of the immature fruit. When these destructive garden pests attack the fruit, they leave large scars on tomatoes.

However, these ravenous caterpillars will also gorge on eggplant, potato, tobacco, and pepper leaves — all plants from the nightshade family Solanaceae.

However, it’s good to note that tomato hornworms are not dangerous to humans. You can safely pick the worms up without fear of being stung. Additionally, despite their insatiable appetite, the green hornworms won’t bite humans, and their black tail isn’t a stinger. Therefore, physically removing them is the best way to prevent damage.

Have you found any green tomato worms in your garden?

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