How to Get Rid of Caterpillars on Purple Kale Plant

Caterpillars can be a nuisance for gardeners, especially when they target valuable plants like the purple kale. These voracious insects can quickly decimate a kale plant if left unchecked. However, there are several effective methods to control and get rid of caterpillars without resorting to harmful pesticides. In this article, we will explore some natural and environmentally friendly ways to protect your purple kale from these pests.

1. Handpicking

One of the simplest and most straightforward methods to control caterpillar infestation is handpicking. Inspect your purple kale plant regularly for any signs of caterpillars or their eggs. Look carefully at the underside of leaves, as caterpillar eggs are often laid there.

Once you locate caterpillars or eggs, carefully remove them by hand and dispose of them in a bucket of soapy water. This method can be time-consuming but is highly effective, especially for small-scale infestations.

2. Companion Planting

Companion planting is an excellent strategy to deter caterpillars from attacking your purple kale plant. Certain plants naturally repel caterpillars and other pests due to their strong aroma or taste. By interplanting these repellent plants with your kale, you create a natural barrier that can help reduce caterpillar infestation.

Some companion plants that repel caterpillars include:

• Marigolds: The strong scent of marigolds repels many common garden pests, including caterpillars.
• Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums act as a trap plant, attracting caterpillars away from your kale.
• Dill: Dill attracts beneficial insects like wasps and ladybugs that prey on caterpillars.

By strategically placing these companion plants around your purple kale, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of caterpillar infestation.

3. Homemade Caterpillar Repellent Sprays

Another effective method to control caterpillars on purple kale is by using homemade repellent sprays. These sprays are easy to make and utilize natural ingredients that are safe for both your plants and the environment.

Here is a simple recipe for a homemade caterpillar repellent spray:

• Ingredients:
• 2 cups of water
• 1 teaspoon of dish soap

• 10 drops of neem oil

• Instructions:

• Mix all the ingredients in a spray bottle.
• Shake well to ensure they are thoroughly combined.
• Spray the mixture directly onto the leaves of your purple kale plant, paying special attention to the areas where caterpillars are present.

The soap acts as a surfactant, helping the spray adhere to the leaves, while neem oil repels caterpillars and disrupts their feeding habits. Repeat this process every few days or after rainfall for optimal results.

4. Encourage Natural Predators

Introducing natural predators into your garden is an effective way to control caterpillar population naturally. Many insects and birds feed on caterpillars, and attracting these beneficial creatures can help keep the pests in check.

To attract natural predators to your garden, you can:

• Plant nectar-rich flowers: Flowers like lavender, sunflowers, and coneflowers attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and parasitic wasps that prey on caterpillars.
• Install bird feeders: Birds such as blue tits, sparrows, and robins feed on caterpillars. By providing them with a food source, you encourage them to visit your garden more frequently.

Creating a balanced ecosystem in your garden will not only help control caterpillar infestations but also contribute to overall biodiversity and a healthier environment.

5. Organic Bacillus Thuringiensis (BT) Spray

If all else fails and your purple kale plant experiences a severe caterpillar infestation, you may consider using an organic BT spray. BT, short for Bacillus thuringiensis, is a naturally occurring bacteria that specifically targets caterpillars.

BT spray can be purchased from garden centers or online retailers. Follow the instructions on the packaging for application guidelines. It is important to note that BT is harmless to humans, pets, and beneficial insects but should be used sparingly as a last resort.

Conclusion

Protecting your purple kale from caterpillar infestation requires vigilance and the implementation of various control methods. By regularly inspecting your plants, handpicking caterpillars, utilizing companion planting, making homemade repellent sprays, encouraging natural predators, and using organic BT spray when necessary, you can effectively control and get rid of caterpillars without resorting to harmful pesticides. Keep in mind that prevention is key, so implementing these strategies early on will help maintain the health and productivity of your purple kale plants.