This week, I turned my attention to tackling a common garden challenge: cutworms. If you’ve noticed your plants wilting, leaves developing holes, or even some plants mysteriously disappearing, you might be dealing with these pesky critters.
So, What Are Cutworms?
Cutworms are the caterpillar stage of certain moths. They’re typically about 1 to 2 inches long, smooth, and come in dull colors. When disturbed, they curl up tightly, making them relatively easy to spot. These little pests have a knack for munching on plants like cabbages, lettuce, peas, and corn, among others.
How Can We Prevent Cutworm Damage?
One effective and straightforward solution is using plant collars. These collars act as a protective barrier around each seedling, preventing cutworms from reaching the base of your plants. Here’s a quick guide to making your own:
DIY Plant Collars Using Paper Cups:
Prepare the Cup: Cut the bottom off a paper cup.
Bury the Cup: Place the cup around the base of your seedling, burying it in the soil with at least 1 inch of the cup sticking above the ground. This shields the stem from cutworms.
Alternative Options:
Toilet Paper Tubes: Cut these into shorter lengths and use them similarly to paper cups.
Tin Cans: Remove the top and bottom of cleaned tin cans to create a sturdy collar.
By using these simple but effective plant collars, you can help protect your garden from cutworm damage and keep your plants healthy and thriving.
Ariel Vang