Written and edited by Tammy 4th April 2023
There's nothing more frustrating and disheartening than pouring all your time, efforts and money into getting your new seasons veggie seedlings in only to find something's chewed the c**p out of them!
So there are a few possibilities; snails, slugs, earwigs, rodents, but what do you do when you find caterpillars are the culprit? and rest assured a fresh hatching of hungry caterpillars can destroy you crop of veggies, almost overnight!
Bet you're not thinking those pretty little white butterflies are so cute now after all.
Cabbage moths, lay there eggs in clusters on the undersides of the leaves. They'll be pale yellow, oblong in shape and not a whole lot bigger than grains of course sand.
When the eggs hatch the Larve (small green caterpillars) feed on the foliage of your plants.
There are a few different options for dealing with them.
Be proactive- Secure insect netting over your vegetable seedlings right from day one when you plant them to stop the cabbage moths from getting to them.
Companion planting- Around the perimeter of your vegetable patch plant Lavenders, Marigold's, Kale or other such plants that the moths will find irresistible. Not only will it look lovely but hopefully it'll keep them satisfied enough to leave your veggies alone.
Set out decoys- Cabbage moths are territorial, if they see another moth has already laid claim to a spot they won't go there. You can purchase fake cabbage moths on spikes to place strategically throughout the garden, or, have a go at making your own. Cut out some butterfly silhouettes from Ice cream container plastic and attached them to skewers. (An Easter holiday activity for the kids).
Physical removal- Routinely check for pests and when you see them pick them off or wash them off before the damage can be done.
Chemical intervention- If all else fails and you can't get on top of the infestation, I highly recommend Yates Dipel Caterpillar killer. Dipel is a natural product specifically for treating caterpillars. The active ingredient BT (Bacillus thuringiensis) is a soil born bacteria that produces a poisonous protein that disrupts the digestive system of the caterpillar. It's completely safe for bees and other beneficial insects and there is no withholding period on edibles. If you're going to use a chemical intervention do some research and see if there's a less harmful, more natural alternative type such as Dipel in this instance. Always use the products as per the manufacturer's instructions on the label.
If you follow some of these hints and tips, I have no doubt in my mind you'll be smashing out pots full of cauliflower soup and steamed broccoli this season in no time- grub free.
Happy gardening! 😘🐛
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