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To: Pete from Shawnee Mission

Oddly, it seems that my turnips are rarely attacked.

But the Brussel Sprouts and cabbage get decimated if I’m not vigilant.


189 posted on 10/09/2024 10:19:15 AM PDT by metmom (He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus”)
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To: metmom
M.M. My brussel sprouts and cauliflower are all covered up, so the white looper butterflies hang out on the turnip plant leaves. Turnip leaves are not smooth so it may not be as hospitable for the hatchlings?

Cabbage loopers

(Three different loopers listed! I was only aware of one.)

BRAVE search gives this summary:

Damage: Cabbage loopers feed on the leaves of turnips, causing large holes and significant damage. The larvae can also bore into the developing heads of turnips, reducing yields and quality.
Life Cycle: Female moths lay eggs on the upper surface of turnip leaves. The larvae hatch and feed on the leaves, going through several instars (stages of growth). After about 2-4 weeks, they pupate and emerge as adult moths.
Identification: Cabbage looper eggs are tiny, yellowish-white to greenish half-spheres, often laid in small clusters of 6-7 on the leaves. The larvae are greenish-yellow, 1-2 inches long, and have a distinctive “looping” motion as they move along the leaves.
Control: To manage cabbage loopers on turnip leaves, consider the following organic methods: Hand-picking: Remove eggs and larvae from plants, especially in the early stages.
Insecticidal soap or Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis): Apply these organic pesticides to control larvae.
Row covers: Use physical barriers to prevent adult moths from laying eggs on your turnip plants.
Crop rotation: Rotate your crops to break the cabbage looper life cycle and reduce populations.

I probably have some damage from the Diamondback loopers. I sprayed, but should probably spray again.

197 posted on 10/09/2024 7:40:36 PM PDT by Pete from Shawnee Mission ( )
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