Show Date: 01 Jun 09

These creatures look a little intimidating! The Eastern Tent Caterpillar …

Eastern tent caterpillar

… when they’re in their “tent” earlier in the morning, knock it down and squish ‘em! Or you can use Bacillus thuringiensis aka Bt. More on that in a moment!

Check your brassica family of veggies like cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower for Cabbage Worms:

Cabbage worm larva

Cabbage worm moth

If you see the moth flying around your veggie garden, you should check under the leaves of your plants for eggs or the larva. Pick them off by hand and destroy them or use Bt. Last but not least the, nearly ever present, Aphid. This article from the University of Wisconsin offers a wealth of information:

• Awesome Aphids [University of Wisconsin]

A harsh spray of water will knock off many an aphid. I use a few drops on soap in a spray bottle of water.

Green goddess broccoflower

There’s controversy whether this is just a green cauliflower or a cross between broccoli and cauliflower. I find that kind of humorous, a controversial vegetable! It’s easy to grow with no blanching required, more heat tolerant and loaded with good nutrition. It’s one of those veggies kids might try just because it’s “funny lookin’!”

The cabbage worm can be pesky. Here’s a link for more information:

• Catepillar Pests of Cole Crops in Home Gardens [U of M Extension]