How To Get Rid Of Cutworms In Your Vegetable Garden
What are Cutworms?
Cutworms are the larvae of several types of night-flying moths. They are cylindrical, gray or brown worms, about one inch long, with a faint black stripe running down the back. Cutworms can be a nuisance in vegetable gardens, as they feed on the stems of newly planted seedlings, causing them to wilt and die. Fortunately, there are several steps that you can take to get rid of cutworms in your vegetable garden.
Cultural Controls for Cutworms
Cultural controls are non-chemical methods for controlling pests. The two most effective cultural controls for cutworms are prevention and hand-picking. To prevent cutworm damage, cover young seedlings with a floating row cover or paper collars around the stems. This will keep the moths from laying their eggs, and the young cutworms from feeding on the stems. Hand-picking is another effective method of controlling cutworms. During the evening, search the garden for cutworm larvae and pick them off by hand. Dispose of the larvae in a bucket of soapy water.
Chemical Controls for Cutworms
If cultural controls are not enough, chemical controls can help reduce the number of cutworms in your garden. Insecticides containing Bacillus thuringiensis, or Bt, are particularly effective in controlling cutworms. Bt is a naturally occurring bacteria that is toxic to cutworms when ingested. When applying Bt, be sure to follow the directions on the product label and only treat the areas of the garden where you have seen cutworms. Another chemical control that can be used to get rid of cutworms is a granular insecticide containing carbaryl. This should be applied to the soil around the base of the affected plants.
Organic Controls for Cutworms
Organic gardeners may choose to use organic controls to get rid of cutworms. Diatomaceous earth, or DE, is one of the most effective organic controls for cutworms. DE is a fine powder made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms. When cutworms crawl over it, the sharp edges cut into their bodies, causing them to dehydrate and die. DE is non-toxic to humans and other beneficial insects, and can be found at most garden centers.
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Using Beneficial Insects to Control Cutworms
Beneficial insects, such as parasitic wasps, can also be used to control cutworms. These wasps lay their eggs inside the cutworm larvae, and when the eggs hatch, the larvae consume the cutworms from the inside out. Beneficial nematodes are another option for controlling cutworms. These microscopic worms infect the larvae, killing them in a matter of days.
Do-It-Yourself Cutworm Traps
Another effective way to get rid of cutworms is to make your own cutworm traps. To do this, you will need some cardboard, some tape, and some bait. Cut the cardboard into strips about two inches wide and six inches long. Place the strips around the perimeter of your garden. Then, tape some bait, such as a piece of bacon, to the strips. The cutworms will be attracted to the bait, and will crawl into the cardboard where you can dispose of them.
Mulching to Control Cutworms
Mulching is another effective way to control cutworms. Mulching with straw or grass clippings will help keep the soil moist and prevent the moths from laying their eggs. In addition, mulch will also help keep weeds at bay, which will reduce the number of places the cutworms can hide. Be sure to spread the mulch evenly around the garden and keep it at least two inches thick.
Preventing Future Cutworm Infestations
The best way to prevent future cutworm infestations is to keep your garden clean and free of debris. Remove any weeds or dead plants from the garden, and keep the area free of standing water. You should also rotate your crops every year and keep a close eye on your garden for signs of cutworm damage. By following these simple steps, you can keep your garden free of cutworms and enjoy a healthy harvest.
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