Caterpillars and Yellow eggs?

Kevin G · Hazel Tree Joined: 03 Aug 2006 Posts: 12 Location: Galway

I've got some window boxes of annual Nasturtiums that are just coming into bloom, and the leaves have been decimated. When I inspected the plants there were green caterpillars on the stems (and a few small snails), but on the undersides of the leaves were little yellow spots, dozens all grouped in a circular area...are these something altogether different or are they the caterpillar eggs? Any ideas? Thanks...

verge

GPI

It sounds like you have got caterpillar eggs to me too, Kevin G.
They a usually yellowish orange.
Its not surprising you would have caterpillars as the annual Nasturtiums are very lush and juicy.
If you get a chance take pic of the "yellow spots", then I will confirm my theory.

I know I keep telling all the members to take and post pictures of their plants, pests etc. There is a method to my madness though.
(1) The person with the query will get an accurate response to their question.
I see it time and time again on other forums, pics generate interest and replies.
(2) Irish gardeners then has a visual record to guide other members with a similar problem.
Thanks.
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Kevin G · Hazel Tree Joined: 03 Aug 2006 Posts: 12 Location: Galway

Thanks for the help! I've since trimmed off the affected leaves and got rid of the problem...if they come back GPI I'll be sure to send you a snap! Very Happy

Kevin G · Hazel Tree Joined: 03 Aug 2006 Posts: 12 Location: Galway

"The Eggs"

And now for the next one..."The Beast"

The Caterpillar is stretched out to his full length of about 35-40mm or 1.5 inches....if I get many more of these I will have to apply for a Herd Number! Laughing

GPI · Posted: Sat Aug 19, 2006 8:51 pm Post subject:

Good informative pics Kevin G.
I like the matchstick for scale.
If any new members want to see some caterpillar eggs they can now view your post.
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Kevin G · Hazel Tree Joined: 03 Aug 2006 Posts: 12 Location: Galway

I hope the only Eggs anyone does see will be in the post and not on their plants! Laughing

spider · Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2008 9:17 pm Post subject: catepillars

I also have the same catepillar and eggs , but they are eating my cabbage and broccolli . I cant cut all the effected leaves off any ideas people.
And how do i stop them from reinfecting again

GPI · Posted: Sat Jun 21, 2008 11:29 am Post subject: Re: catepillars

spider · Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2008 8:32 am Post subject:

thanks gpi .simple thing as salt , and here i was thinking of going to the chemist for some fancy chemical

inishindie · Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2008 1:02 pm Post subject: garlic

Hi

Try garlic spray on the veggie patch....

Garlic spray is great for getting rid of pests such as wireworms, slugs, caterpillars and weevils. Chop 3oz (75g) of garlic and mix with two teaspoons full of mineral oil. Leave for twenty-four hours to let the garlic soak in to the oil. After this time, add a pint (575ml) of water into which two teaspoons of soft soap have been added. Stir thoroughly and strain into plastic containers to store. To use, dissolve one part of this mixture to twenty parts of water. Spray this on to the leaves of affected vegetables and also treat the soil around the plants.

Cheers

Ian
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