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Produce => Pests & Diseases => Topic started by: cestrian on July 22, 2012, 21:14:07

Title: small caterpillars on strings
Post by: cestrian on July 22, 2012, 21:14:07
I've got loads of tiny little caterpillars, only 2mm long, on my brassicas and if I disturb them they fall off but hang on by invisible string.

I'm constantly having to squidge them as whole squadrons munch through the leaves on my broccoli and cauliflowers.

Does anyone know what these are?
Title: Re: small caterpillars on strings
Post by: Duke Ellington on July 22, 2012, 21:46:59
Cabbage white caterpillars me thinks!!
Title: Re: small caterpillars on strings
Post by: Digeroo on July 22, 2012, 21:56:17
Keep squidging.
Title: Re: small caterpillars on strings
Post by: Tefleon on July 23, 2012, 12:24:32
I think they are a type of tent caterpillar; maybe Ermine Moth.   I've had similar in my apple trees. 

If they are the same or similar, don't go after individuals.   They next in groups most of the day and then at feeding time, leave the next, wonder around the leaves having their dinner before returning to the group, which can then be squished on mass in one go!

The more that I've killed, the more I've seen the plants recovered.
Title: Re: small caterpillars on strings
Post by: Digeroo on July 23, 2012, 12:46:35
It is worth turning over the leaves and looking for eggs.  It is easier to squidge groups of eggs than the caterpillers.   If they are cabbage white the eggs are yellow and laid mostly on the underside of the leaves.  It can be a good idea to check every couple of days.