Broccoli Worms

Question

I grew my broccoli in net tents, with floors to protect them from such invaders and yet…….I went out today and there were dozens of those little green invaders completely destroying the little head of broccoli I have been cheering for (it was my first). The tents had very tiny holes, zipped up and had an attached floor. How did these pests get in?????? I protected them so well (apparently not)!! My strawberries (also in net tents) have all come down with an aphid invasion. I am guessing tents dont really help?

Answer 1

Sounds like you did everything right with the net tents — zipped, fine mesh, even with a floor — but those tiny green pests still found a way in. Insects like cabbage worms and aphids are persistent and can sneak in through the smallest openings or even hitch a ride on your hands, tools, or seedlings before the tents are sealed. Aphids especially are small enough to squeeze through fine mesh or even be born inside the tent if eggs were already on the plant. Tents can help reduce infestations but aren't foolproof. For added protection, inspect plants before tenting, use sticky traps inside, and consider companion planting with herbs like dill or nasturtium to deter pests. A quick rinse with insecticidal soap can also knock back early outbreaks.

Here are some articles that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/broccoli/worms-in-broccoli-caterpillars-in-the-broccoli-head.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/homemade-aphid-control.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/vgen/companion-vegetable-garden.htm