Cabbage Webworms
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Cabbage webworms (Hellula rogatalis) are easily recognized. Unlike other caterpillar larvae that attack cole crops in Kentucky, this larva has a black head capsule. Larvae are tan colored with four brown stripes running the length of the body. Larvae are often found inside webbed pockets formed along the leaf margins. Initially damage appears as small (quarter sized) brown, dried areas along the leaf margins. The moth has brownish-yellow forewings mottled with darker brown and pale gray hind wings. Resting on the ground where it is well camouflaged, the moth takes short, erratic flights when disturbed.
Cabbage webworms caterpillar
(Photo: UKY Vegetable IPM Team, University of Kentucky)
Cabbage webworm moth
(Photo: UKY Vegetable IPM Team, University of Kentucky)
Management:
- This pest is more destructive than the other caterpillar pests of cabbage, particular when attacking the bud of small plants. This is a fall pest so later planting should be monitored.
- Sprays should be applied while the larvae are small before they construct their protective silken webs. Once inside the folded leaves the larva are protected from insecticide sprays. Sprays need to be directed underneath the leaves and down into the bud.
