A common method of controlling gypsy moth is to apply B.t. (Bacillus thuringiensis) by aerial spraying. B.t. is a common soil bacteria that kills caterpillars.

Traditional insecticides such as carbaryl, Dimilin, pyrethrin, and malathion are sometimes used to control gypsy moth larvae.

Pheromone flakes are sometimes used to confuse male gypsy moths, reducing reproduction.

Egg masses can be scraped off tree trunks with a knife and dropped into a bucket filled with hot water and household bleach or ammonia. They can be buried or burned, as well.

Caterpillars can be trapped by wrapping a wide strip of burlap around the tree at chest height. This prevents them from reaching the leaves to feed.

More than 50 species of biological control agents have been introduced to attack the gypsy moth, but none have been successful in controlling this pest.