Adult moth of the Cabbage Looper
Larvae of the Cabbage Looper from
very young to full-grown
Damage by early instars of the
Cabbage Looper
Feeding damage by the
Cabbage Looper
|
Cabbage Looper
The following is excerpted from Kansas State University Research and Extension 2003.
Emphasis by B&J Garden Solutions
Cabbage Looper: Trichoplusia ni. Also known as cabbage worm.
Hosts: Primarily members of the cabbage family such as cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower.
Description: The cabbage looper larvae are a light green color with light stripes running down their backs. Loopers reach approximately 1½ inches long and have three pairs of slender legs near the head and three pairs of larger prolegs at the rear end. The middle section is legless and is looped when the insect is moving. Larvae are the damaging stage of this insect. Worms feed on the undersides of leaves between the veins and leave ragged holes. They also feed on cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli heads. Larvae may be present from early spring to late fall.
Recommendations: Since these insects are Lepidopterous (adults are moths), they can be controlled with Bacillus thuringiensis, a biological control. Other sprays can also be used but weekly treatments will be needed to control newly hatched larvae. It is important to thoroughly cover the underside of the leaves as this is where the looper feeds.
Why put up with the hassle of weekly treatments (or even more often if it rains)?
Use the Moth-Blocker™ for 100% complete organic control!
|
|
