Seemingly overnight, my beautiful blossoming zucchini plants have been reduced to this:
Yep. Some caterpillars were super hungry last night. Jerks.
It’s so sad. I never even got to eat one! I had so much hope. So much excitement and anticipation of a bountiful harvest of my all time favorite vegetable. And now, nothing but ugliness and caterpillars inhabiting my backyard! Ugh!
There is however some good news to report. Apparently caterpillars have a distaste for basil, watermelon, and green pepper plants, because these guys still look awesome!
I’m still hanging on to hope that one day I might get to eat some food from my own backyard!
So I need the advice of seasoned gardeners here… What the heck am I supposed to do now!?
Bummer. I’ve had to do more pest control this year than in the past and I’ve found that it’s made a big difference. I’ve saved quite a few plants. There are lots of safe options out there – chili garlic spray, neem oil. I’ve been there, and know how disappointed you are. Don’t give up. You’ll get something and you’ll learn a WHOLE lot for next year.
Thanks! What would you recommend next year when the caterpillars come in? I’m wanting to stay as organic and toxic free as possible!
I have been growing organically for four years, and I’ve not been able to get away with not spraying anything. Neem oil is considered to be organic gardening (it’s a plant based oil) and I’ve found it to be VERY helpful. Caterpillars can be tough, though and nothing beats a little hand picking. The neem should keep them from wanting to get on, and with picking you can keep them from populating your plant with their little hungry babies. Sounds like you had some eggs hatch on the plant, which is the other thing to watch for. Underside of the leaves, little round hard things of any color should be removed. Don’t give up!
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