And winter gardening can be rewarding, especially when it comes to growing brassicas like cabbage. However, pesky cabbage worms can cause damage and undermine all the hard work we put into the garden. This guide will help you identify cabbage worms and offer effective, natural methods to keep them out of your garden this winter.

What Are Cabbage Worms?

Cabbage worms are the green larvae of cabbage white butterflies, scientifically known as *Pieris rapae*. These caterpillars feast on cabbage, broccoli, kale, and other brassicas, causing holes in the leaves and stunting plant growth.

Identifying Cabbage Worms

Cabbage worms can often be spotted as velvety green larvae with faint yellow stripes along their bodies. Look out for small white butterflies fluttering near your garden – these are likely the adult form of cabbage worms. Early detection of eggs on the undersides of leaves can prevent infestations from taking hold.

Preventing and Removing Cabbage Worms in the Garden

Planting the Right Companion Plants

Companion planting can be a powerful way to deter cabbage worms. Herbs like thyme, sage, and mint can naturally repel cabbage butterflies and their larvae with their strong scents. Nasturtiums and marigolds can also act as trap plants, luring cabbage worms away from your valuable crops.

Use Row Covers

Protect your cabbage patch by covering it with lightweight, breathable row covers. These barriers prevent adult butterflies from laying their eggs on your plants, significantly reducing infestations while allowing air and sunlight to pass through.

Remove Manually

Regularly inspect your plants and hand-pick cabbage worms. While it may seem labour-intensive, manual removal is an effective and immediate way to eliminate pests. Drop the worms into a bucket of soapy water to ensure they don't return to your garden.

Use Neem Oil Spray

Neem oil acts as a natural pesticide, disrupting the lifecycle of cabbage worms. Mix 2-3 teaspoons of neem oil with water. Spray this solution onto affected leaves, focusing on the undersides where eggs often hide. Neem oil not only repels but also limits the growth of larvae.

Chilli Garlic or Buttermilk Spray

Make a homemade spray using chilli and garlic, which are both natural insect repellents. Blend two cloves of garlic, one hot chilli pepper, and water, then strain the mixture. Spray it on your cabbage plants to deter cabbage worms without harming beneficial insects. In addition to this, lassi, chaas or buttermilk mixed with water can also act as a natural insecticide and fungicide.

Use Eggshells

Crushed eggshells can work as a physical deterrent. Scatter them around the base of your cabbage plants. The sharp edges discourage crawling pests and can help deter cabbage butterflies by mimicking the presence of rival eggs.

Keeping your cabbage patch healthy and free from cabbage worms is possible with regular monitoring and natural methods. Daily inspection and cleanup play a crucial role in preventing pests from taking over.