Cabbage is a favorite among gardeners, but pests are also not averse to feasting on the juicy leaves.
Caterpillars and slugs can destroy the entire crop in a short time. However, there are effective methods of protection that will help keep the cabbage healthy and beautiful.
Main pests of cabbage
The cabbage white butterfly and the cutworm are the main enemies of cabbage. Their caterpillars gnaw many holes in the leaves, leaving behind only the veins.
Slugs also cause serious damage, especially in rainy weather. They eat deep holes in the leaves and heads of cabbage, making the cabbage unfit for consumption.
Preventive measures
Proper preparation of the site is the key to successful pest control. In the fall, the soil should be dug up, destroying wintering insects.
In spring, it is useful to carry out crop rotation by planting cabbage in a new place. It is important to promptly remove weeds and plant debris that serve as a shelter for pests.
Mechanical methods of protection
A simple but effective method is manual collection of caterpillars and slugs. Regular inspection of plants will help to detect pests at an early stage.
Traps with beer or kvass are effective for protection against slugs. The insects are attracted by the smell and fall into the container.
Folk remedies
Experienced gardeners use infusions and decoctions of plants with a strong smell. Wormwood, garlic, tobacco repel pests.
Spraying cabbage with a solution of mustard or wood ash also helps in the fight against caterpillars and slugs. These products are safe for humans and the environment.
Biological methods
Attracting natural enemies of pests to the site is an effective method of protection. Birds, ground beetles, ladybugs help control the number of insects.
Planting marigolds and calendula next to cabbage repels pests with their smell.
Chemical means of protection
In case of severe damage to cabbage, you can resort to insecticides. It is important to choose preparations approved for use on vegetable crops and strictly follow the instructions.
Treatment is carried out in the evening, when the activity of beneficial insects decreases.
Integrated approach
The most effective is a combination of different methods of protection. Alternating mechanical, folk and biological means allows achieving the best results.
Regular monitoring of plant health helps to notice the appearance of pests in time and take action.
