Pacific Northwest Insect Management Handbook

Cabbage and mustard seed-Imported cabbageworm

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Image related to Cabbage and mustard seed-Imported cabbageworm
Imported cabbage worm
Pieris rapae Linnaeus
Immature showing damage on leaves
© Ken Gray Insect Image Collection
Image related to Cabbage and mustard seed-Imported cabbageworm
Imported cabbage worm
Pieris rapae Linnaeus
Adult emerging
© Ken Gray Insect Image Collection

Pieris rapae

Pest description and crop damage Larvae are green and very hairy with a velvet-like appearance. Caterpillars are soft, velvety green with faint yellow stripes. Adult is a white butterfly with black spots.

Management-chemical control

azadirachtin (Neemix 4.5 IGR) at 4 to 10 fl oz/A (0.012 to 0.031 lb ai/A). PHI 0 days. REI 4 hr. Begin applications at first sign of infestation. Multiple applications and thorough coverage are necessary for effective control. Apply every 7 to 10 days as needed. Some formulations are OMRI-listed for organic use.

See also:

Broccoli, Brussels sprout, cabbage, cauliflower-Imported cabbageworm

Mustard greens-Imported cabbageworm

Kaur, N. (Ed.). 2024 Pacific Northwest Insect Management Handbook.
© Oregon State University.

Use pesticides safely!

  • Wear protective clothing and safety devices as recommended on the label. Bathe or shower after each use.
  • Read the pesticide label—even if you’ve used the pesticide before. Follow closely the instructions on the label (and any other directions you have).
  • Be cautious when you apply pesticides. Know your legal responsibility as a pesticide applicator. You may be liable for injury or damage resulting from pesticide use.

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