Collard Green

[Bravo2008]

My collard green is growing nicely in the backyard. But these past few days I noticed some holes on the leaves. Upon closer inspection, there are green caterpillars of all sizes on them. What are these? How do you get rid of them without using pesticides if possible and is it safe to wash and still eat the collard green leaves. I live in central New Jersey. Thank you for the information.

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[Newt]

Hi Bravo,

Sounds like you have either cabbage worms aka imported cabbage worms, cabbage loopers or diamondback moth larvae.
http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/bugreview/cabbageworm.html

One of the best organic sprays is one with Bt aka Bacillus thuringiensis for these particular pests.* Javelin WG is a brand name for a spray.* From this site about halfway down the page.
http://www.ag.auburn.edu/aaes/commun...l97/sprays.htm

The active ingredient in Javelin WG is a toxin obtained from a bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis variety kurstaki. The toxin is active only against caterpillar pests, and acts as a stomach poison that must be consumed by the worms to be effective.

(The bold in the quote is mine.)

You can also use a ground red pepper spray or use another product called Align which contains Neem.* The problem with Neem is it targets beneficial insects as well.* You can make your own pepper spray.
http://www.ghorganics.com/page14.html#Pepper%20Spray

Garlic sray often works for these pests as well.* Here's how to make your own.
http://www.ghorganics.com/page14.htm...%20Oil%20Spray

You should find these recipes helpful.
http://www.ghorganics.com/page14.html

More helpful info on natural insect control.
http://www.ghorganics.com/page9.html

Enjoy your collards!
Newt