Horticulture

Cabbage worms This is the time of year we normally start seeing damage from cabbage worms. The imported cabbage worm is usually the first cabbage worm species to appear and is a fuzzy, elongated green worm. Larvae come from eggs laid by the white butterfly, often seen flitting around the plants. Early control is essential to reduce injury. BT (Bacillus thuringiensis) and spinosad (Monterey Garden Insect Spray, Captain Jack’s Dead Bug Brew) are effective organic products that are labeled for this pest. BT can be found in Dipel, Thuricide and other similar materials. Direct sunlight deactivates BT quickly, so it is helpful to spray late in the day or on a cloudy day. Sustainable disease management in the home garden (fact sheet series) Home garden production is more likely to be successful when plant diseases are managed proactively. Preventative practices help to minimize pesticide sprays in residential settings and provide a more sustainable approach. The following series of publications, which cover five common vegetable groups, were recently updated. Each two-page fact sheet focuses on preventative cultural practices, but also includes management options using conventional and organic fungicides appropriate for various growth stages. These fact sheets are available online or you can stop by the Extension Office to pick up a copy. You can also email faye.kuosman@uky.edu to request a copy by email. To find them online, google the following titles: Sustainable Disease Management of Cole Crops in the Home Garden (PPFS-VG-23) Sustainable Disease Management of Cucurbit Crops in the Home Garden (PPFS-VG-19) Sustainable Disease Management of Leafy Green Crops in the Home Garden (PPFS-VG-20) Sustainable Disease Management of Legume Vegetable Crops in the Home Garden (PPFS-VG-22) Sustainable Disease Management of Solanaceous Crops in the Home Garden (PPFS-VG-21)