This is the first year we’re attempting to grow cabbage. It all started out great and full of hope. Then, the cabbage worms struck. We started picking them off one by one…which was nearly impossible, but worked…mostly…though not before many, many holes were chewed.
It seems that the worms are gone now, but in their place are these itty bitty black bugs. They’re everywhere and chewing on the holes left by the worms. WTF?
I’m a little hesitant to hold out hope, but do you see the little leaves beginning to curl around themselves in the photos below? They look healthy and feel strong and so far have no bug damage! Maybe…just maybe…we’ll wind up with some cabbage after all…
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Garden disasters! I’m sorry to see your crops get chewed through by these little buggers, nothing but a pain. GirlRural hit on the head with her dish soap and diluted water tip. Do not use pesticides just yet.
-Tony Salmeron
Thanks, Tony! I would like to never have to use pesticides in our garden, so the soap will just have to work for now 🙂
When I applied the organic Bt powder to my collards, I first put a few spoonfuls of it in an empty garlic powder container with a pop-top that exposed the holes in the top. Then you can just sprinkle it on the plants holding it sideways while tapping it with your finger. Very easy and works very well.
Nice technique! Thanks for sharing it! There’s still so much for us to learn in the garden department!
Thanks, Tonya! Great tip on using old stockings to protect the cabbage heads.
I’d cut off the damaged leaves and apply a solution of dish soap (organic from Whole Foods or some such if possible) diluted in water. This mixture is my go too for pests and has been serving me well for years. Plus, it’s easy to wash off before eating.
Dish soap?! Who knew? Thanks for that! Sounds cheap and safe! I love it 🙂
We had the same problem this year. Somebody gave me great advice to pick up some Bt (Bacillus Thuriengiensis) and spray the plants. It’s certified organic and it works!
I would cut down an damaged leaves as far on the stalk as you can. DO you have any Mantids? They are great natural pest control. Definitely get the Bt. You can also alternate spraying NEEM oil and Insecticidal soap both which are vegetable derived. Be sure to buy those with the Organic seal on the label.
Once that is done buy a bunch of cheap nylon stockings and cover the cabbage heads with nylon this will prevent any worms from burrowing into the cabbage heads and allows water/ air/ light to get to the cabbage.
Oooohhh…I love the idea of putting stockings over them! Thanks for the tips!
Thanks for the tip! I’ll look into it 🙂