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Identifying caterpillars on Bok Choy
Larval stage of butterflies and moths. Highly variable in colour and size. Frass (droppings) present near damage.
cycle
Life cycle
Egg → caterpillar → pupa → adult butterfly/moth. Several generations per year depending on species.
warning
Damage to Bok Choy
Chew leaves, stems, and fruit. Can defoliate entire plants rapidly.
healing
How to treat caterpillars on Bok Choy
Hand-pick. Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray. Neem oil. Chemical insecticide for large infestations.
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Preventing caterpillars on Bok Choy
Inspect undersides of leaves for eggs. Encourage birds and parasitic wasps.