To understand how to get rid of a garden pest, I always like to start by trying to understand what I’m really trying to get rid of. In this case the cabbage worm. Cabbage worm is a generalized term used for four types of Lepidoptera. More specifically its larvae.

The Lepidoptera are an order of insects, a very large order, that includes insects like the moth and the butterfly. These insects, as they are related to cabbage worms, like to feed on cabbage and other coleslaw crops. If you are growing broccoli, cauliflower, radishes, or turnips to name a few, you may encounter cabbage maggots.

The four types of cabbage worms referred to are the imported cabbage worm, the cabbage worm, the cabbage web worm, and the diamondback moth. If not managed early, they can literally cause massive amounts of damage that you may not be able to recover from in the same growing season.

As with many other harmful insects in the garden, you’ll want to start by finding out what their natural predators are. This will go a long way in ensuring that you keep your garden safe from harmful insecticides that could also kill off beneficial insects. Natural predators of the cabbage worm are parasitic wasps, soldier bugs, and lacewings.

To attract parasitic wasps, plant nectar-rich flowers in the garden, thyme, dill, savory and other herbs. Dill, fennel, and cilantro are great options for attracting lacy wings. For soldier bugs, milkweed, goldenrod, and hydrangea work well.

Attracting benefits can take some time, and if you’re inundated with them, time may be something you don’t have much of. There are a number of harmless sprays and recipes on the internet, such as garlic and pepper sprays. A Google search for the words “Pepper Spray” will return a lot. You can also buy over-the-counter sprays, such as Neem oil and Neem oil soap. They work well, but will need to be reapplied after heavy rain or watering.

Lastly, there is diatomaceous earth. The disadvantage of DE is that it affects all the insects in your garden. It does not distinguish between the good and the bad. Also, it requires multiple applications and is best applied during drying times throughout the day.

A recent survey I read had cabbage worm as the number two culprit in home gardens. Rest ensures that there are a variety of solutions available to you, either for free or at a very low cost.