How to Get Rid of Caterpillars on Turtle Vine Plant

Turtle vine plant, also known as bolivian jew, is a beautiful trailing succulent that is often grown as a houseplant or in outdoor hanging baskets. However, it is not uncommon for caterpillars to feast on the leaves of the turtle vine plant, leaving unsightly holes and potentially damaging the plant’s health. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of caterpillars on turtle vine plant and prevent future infestations.

Identify the Caterpillars

Before you can effectively get rid of caterpillars on your turtle vine plant, it is important to identify what type of caterpillar you are dealing with. Some caterpillars are harmless and can even be beneficial to your garden, while others can cause serious damage.

The most common caterpillars that feed on turtle vine plant include:

• Armyworms: These are green or brown caterpillars with stripes along their bodies. They are commonly found in large groups and can quickly strip a plant of its leaves.
• Cabbage loopers: These are light green caterpillars with white stripes down their backs. They move by arching their bodies in a looping motion.
• Cutworms: These are brown or gray caterpillars that curl up into a C-shape when disturbed. They feed at night and can cut through the stems of young plants.

Once you have identified the type of caterpillar you are dealing with, you can choose the best method for getting rid of them.

Manual Removal

If you only have a few caterpillars on your turtle vine plant, you may be able to remove them by hand. Wear gloves to protect your hands from any potential stings or irritations from the caterpillars.

To remove the caterpillars:

1. Pick them off the plant and place them in a container filled with soapy water to drown them.
2. If the caterpillars are too small to pick off by hand, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to dab them until they fall off the plant.

Natural Solutions

If you prefer to avoid using chemicals on your plants, there are several natural solutions that can help get rid of caterpillars on your turtle vine plant.

Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide that is effective against a wide range of pests, including caterpillars. It works by disrupting the insect’s hormonal system, preventing it from feeding and reproducing.

To use neem oil:

1. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of neem oil with one quart of water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the solution directly on the caterpillars and the affected areas of the plant.
3. Repeat every 7-10 days until the infestation is gone.

Bacillus Thuringiensis

Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) is a bacteria that is toxic to certain types of caterpillars, including armyworms and cabbage loopers.

To use BT:

1. Mix the recommended amount of BT powder with water according to the instructions on the package.
2. Spray the solution directly on the caterpillars and the affected areas of the plant.
3. Repeat every 7-10 days until the infestation is gone.

Chemical Solutions

If your infestation is severe or you prefer to use chemical solutions, there are several insecticides that are effective against caterpillars.

Spinosad

Spinosad is a naturally occurring insecticide that is effective against a wide range of pests, including caterpillars. It works by disrupting the insect’s nervous system, causing paralysis and death.

To use spinosad:

1. Mix the recommended amount of spinosad with water according to the instructions on the package.
2. Spray the solution directly on the caterpillars and the affected areas of the plant.
3. Repeat every 7-10 days until the infestation is gone.

Permethrin

Permethrin is a synthetic insecticide that is effective against caterpillars as well as other pests such as mites and aphids.

To use permethrin:

1. Mix the recommended amount of permethrin with water according to the instructions on the package.
2. Spray the solution directly on the caterpillars and the affected areas of the plant.
3. Repeat every 7-10 days until the infestation is gone.

Prevention

Preventing caterpillar infestations on your turtle vine plant is easier than dealing with an existing infestation. Here are some tips for preventing caterpillars from feasting on your plants:

• Keep an eye out for eggs and caterpillars and remove them as soon as you see them.
• Keep your plants healthy by providing proper lighting, watering, and fertilization.
• Use companion planting to attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on caterpillars and other pests.

By following these tips, you can keep your turtle vine plant healthy and free of caterpillar infestations.

FAQ

Q: Can caterpillars harm my turtle vine plant?

A: Yes, caterpillars can cause serious damage to your turtle vine plant, especially if left unchecked.

Q: Are there any natural solutions for getting rid of caterpillars?

A: Yes, neem oil and bacillus thuringiensis (BT) are both natural solutions that are effective against certain types of caterpillars.

Q: How can I prevent future caterpillar infestations?

A: Keep an eye out for eggs and caterpillars, keep your plants healthy, and use companion planting to attract beneficial insects.