I found a cutworm

[strawberry1]

ugh, it appeared when I pulled a caulie plant up. I lost several young plants last year and always suspected cutworm as the stalks were severed from the roots. Two caulies left and I will then de-net and dig around so maybe birds can get to the grubs and I will have to get out my diatomaceous earth to form circles around young plants. Thank goodness, I have a few months to get looking

[strawberry1]

[Jayb]

I wonder if the mild winter has played a part? I see the pupae somtimes.
If you haven't already read this, it looks a good information sheet from Garden Organics http://www.gardenorganic.org.uk/pdfs/international_programme/TPC12-Cutworm.pdf

[strawberry1]

That was interesting jayb. We forked the soil up today and didn`t see any more. Some good tips on that link and I am going to use observation, d.earth and will be growing bigger sturdy plants to put in. I also like the tin can idea as it will also protect from wind. I have one more caulie to take out and will then make absolutely sure that there is nothing there for the grubs to eat.

http://www.toxicfreenc.org/organicgardening/cutworms.html

I see that plastic bottles will also work, good because I have lots used for watering. A handy tip