Cabbage loopers and diamondback moth larvae are light green, while cross- or zebra-striped cabbage worms have black and white stripes along their backs. [2] X Research source Most cabbage pests lay eggs on the underside of the leaves, so be sure to remove those as well![3] X Research source
Add 1 cup (240 mL) of vinegar to your soap and water solution for stubborn infestations.
Note that Bt will kill all butterfly larvae, not just cabbage worms.
Apply insecticidal soaps like Neem oil regularly to fully eradicate the worms. [9] X Research source
Parasitic wasps and yellowjackets will also eat cabbage worms, as will house sparrows, skylarks, and goldfinch skylarks. Provide water and nesting spots to attract birds and pollinators to your garden. [12] X Research source
While not scientifically proven to eradicate cabbage worms, this is an easy option that some home gardeners swear by.
To avoid trapping any cabbage worms inside the covers, you’d have to remove every last worm and egg from your plants, so this is best used for your next cabbage crop.
For best results, plant trap crops in addition to trying the other eradication methods we’ve outlined.
Also, avoid planting large blocks of a single crop. Plant small plots of lots of different things together to slow down pest progress.
