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12 inch high cauliflower/broccoli plants chewed off at base #868735
Asked May 16, 2024, 2:24 PM EDT
Been growing crucifers all my life and have never seen this before. Started seed ( cauliflower, broccoli, red cabbage) late February, plants into the ground mid April 8-10 high. Covered the plants with half gallon juice bottles and left them covered until 10 May. Checked today and most plants have been chewed off at the base. Leaves were not eaten. Did see bunch of slugs in area. Would slugs chew off stems ca. quarter inch thick and not eat the leaves?
Thanks for your help here. Still have ca. 10 or so covered with bottles (smaller ones).
Onondaga County New York
Expert Response
Hi there,
Slugs generally eat the foliage but may eat through small stems. It also could have been cutworms. See https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/cutworms, for info and management.
Best,
Rachelle, MG Volunteer
Sent: Friday, May 17, 2024 10:59 AM
To: djp6486 <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: 12 inch high cauliflower/broccoli plants chewed off at base (#0138656)
Dear djp6486, here's the response to your question:
Hi there,
Slugs generally eat the foliage but may eat through small stems. It also could have been cutworms. See https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/cutworms, for info and management.
Best,
Rachelle, MG Volunteer
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