Q.Parsley Pests
We have a large pot of parsley that has been doing great and providing us with all we can use. Today we found it covered with 1/2 inch long worms (larve). They are black and white striped around their body and have yellow dots along their side. We picked them off and trimmed the plant. What can be safely sprayed on the plant to prevent a reoccurance? What kind of moth produces this larve?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
The “parsley worm” is the caterpillar of the Black Swallowtail butterfly. These caterpillars will be found on parsley and closely related plants. They will gladly feast on the plants until there is nothing left. About the only solution is to hand-pick them. However, you may want to try neem oil too. Here is more info: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm
