What's eating my brussel sprouts?

Discussion in 'Fruit and Veg Gardening' started by bhapimama, Jul 29, 2012.

  1. bhapimama

    bhapimama New Seed

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    This is my first time attempting to grow brussel sprouts - wondering if anyone has any input as to what the problem(s) may be and recommendations for any remedy. I am considering pulling them out and using the space for something else. I put them in on a whim and while at first the plants seemed very healthy and overall still do, recently they have become more and more full of holes and over the last week, I have noticed what appears to be either eggs or poop. You should be able to see what I am talking about in the photos. I have a variety of other vegies and none of them are affected this way. I don't believe I have a slug/snail problem. The plants are in raised beds.
    Any input would be appreciated. Thank you :)

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    ( photo / image / picture from bhapimama's Garden )





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    ( photo / image / picture from bhapimama's Garden )





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  3. mart

    mart Strong Ash

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    Grasshoppers or cabbage loopers. Spray or dust for insects.
     
  4. Netty

    Netty Chaotic Gardener Plants Contributor

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    My guess is cabbage worms. They are very hard to see because they are the same color as the cabbage. Their poop, as in the photo, is their calling card - as well as the holes in the leaves.
     
  5. carolyn

    carolyn Strong Ash

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    It is cabbage loopers...The little white or yellow butterflies you see floating around the garden are the culprit. Commonly known as sulfurs.... dust the sprouts with Dipel dust( also known as Bt). it is a natural pesticide for the caterpillars and once they eat one bite of it they quit feeding and basically starve to death and it is non toxic to people.
     



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  6. Jerry Sullivan

    Jerry Sullivan Garden Experimenter Plants Contributor

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    Something actually likes brussel sprouts? Not my favorite veggie. :-( A childhood nemesis on the Sunday dinner plate. Good luck banishing the cabbage loopers.

    Jerry
     
  7. Clay_22

    Clay_22 In Flower

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    Good luck getting rid of your pest. Grew them a few years back with no problems. Hey Jerry nothing like fresh brussels halved with butter and red pepper flakes.
     
  8. glendann

    glendann Official Garden Angel

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    Everyone has named the pest that loves the sprouts.I love them also.
     
  9. mart

    mart Strong Ash

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    If it grows, I like it.
     

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