A variety of worms attack tender lettuce (Lactuca sativa), ruining the beauty and quality of the leaves. As a result of worm invasions, your salad fixings can be unappetizing or even inedible if the infestation is severe. The cabbage looper worm, beet armyworm and corn earworm are three common pests that plague lettuce crops. Whatever worm culprit is to blame, the solution is the same.
The best plan of attack against lettuce-damaging worms is to catch them early and use a floating row cover over the new seedlings called “Reemay”, this prevents the adult moth from laying eggs.
Larvae can be handpicked from the lettuce and destroyed. If your infestation is severe, the insecticide Bacillus thuringiensis can be used in liquid or powder form to kill worms as they ingest the product. These ready-to-use sprays and powders should cover lettuce leaves thoroughly, and are safe up to the day of harvest. Note that insecticides that kill harmful moth larvae will also kill the caterpillars of butterflies and harmless moths.
About the Author: Garden Answers
Leave A Comment