How to protect your tomato plants from cutworms

Tomato plants are a favorite among gardeners due to their delicious taste and versatility in cooking. However, many gardeners struggle with cutworms, which are notorious for attacking tomato plants. These pests can cause significant damage to a plant, often resulting in stunted growth or death. In this article, we will discuss how to protect your tomato plants from cutworms.

What are cutworms and how do they damage tomato plants?

Cutworms are the larvae of several moth species, including the armyworm moth and the yellowstriped armyworm moth. These pests are active at night and feed on the leaves of tomato plants, often cutting through the stem of the plant at soil level, which can kill the plant. They can also cause other types of damage, such as holes in leaves and fruit damage.

Prevention is key

The best way to protect your tomato plants from cutworms is to prevent them from attacking in the first place. This can be accomplished using several different methods.

First, use a physical barrier around your plants to prevent cutworms from reaching them. This can be done by using a collar made of cardboard or plastic around each plant, burying it slightly in the ground to prevent cutworms from accessing the plant.

Second, keep your garden clean and free of debris, as cutworms will often hide in piles of organic matter. Use a rake to remove any dead leaves or other debris from your garden, and be sure to dispose of it in a separate location.

Third, attract natural predators to your garden. One example of a natural predator is the parasitic wasp, which lays eggs on the cutworm larvae. When the eggs hatch, they consume the cutworm larvae, effectively eliminating them from your garden.

Organic treatments for cutworms

If cutworms have already infiltrated your tomato plants, there are several organic treatments you can use to eliminate them.

The first step is to handpick the cutworms from your plants, being sure to dispose of them in a separate location. This may require some patience, as cutworms tend to hide during the day and feed at night. Look for signs of damage, such as holes in leaves or cut stems at soil level, to identify their presence.

Another organic treatment is to use a natural pesticide, such as Bacillus thuringiensis (BT). This bacteria is highly effective at eliminating cutworms and other pests, while remaining safe for use in organic gardens. Spray your plants with the BT, being sure to follow the instructions on the label.

Conclusion

Tomato plants are a fantastic addition to any vegetable garden, but cutworms can quickly turn your garden into a damaged mess. By taking preventative measures, such as physical barriers and natural predators, you can effectively protect your tomato plants from cutworms. If cutworms do invade your garden, remember to use organic treatments to eliminate them, as these treatments are safe for both your garden and the environment.