Caterpillars are cute — until they turn your garden into an all - you - can - eat sideboard .

One day you ’re admiring fresh green leaves . The next ? Holes . Everywhere . Tiny unripened invader chewing like they own the piazza .

Sure , you could spend a fortune on sprays and contrivance . Or bad , wave around some chemical cocktail that scares off everything but the actual pests .

But the real fix ? It ’s punk . Smarter . And right smart more satisfying .

We ’re talking pantry particular , underhand tricks , and former - school moves that station caterpillars packing — without wrecking the rest of your garden .

If you ’re quick to stop play defense and in reality win this leafy warfare , keep reading . The result ’s closer ( and simpler ) than you consider .

Handpicking

Gently removing caterpillars by hand is a simple and efficient method . It requires patience and a careful eye to pick out these critter . Consider doing this early in the break of the day when they are less active .

Neem Oil Spray

Neem crude acts as a natural pesticide , admonish cat from crunch on leaves . Mix it with water and spray on affected plants . Its skanky attribute make it ideal for organic gardening .

Birdhouses

attract birds to your garden is a sustainable way to control caterpillar populations . Birds are natural predators and will junket on these insect , reducing their numbers importantly .

Garlic Spray

Garlic ’s pungent odor deters caterpillars efficaciously . Blend ail with urine , strain , and use the liquid to spray plants . This born solution is both monetary value - effectual and environmentally well-disposed .

Soap and Water

A mixture of goop and water can asphyxiate caterpillars on tangency . Spray the solution directly onto the critters . This method acting is easy to prepare and hold , stool it a pop choice for nurseryman .

Companion Planting

institute certain species like marigolds and lavender can naturally repel caterpillars . These plants let loose scents that caterpillars ascertain unappealing , offering a fragrant and beautiful garden solution .

Bacillus Thuringiensis (Bt)

Bt is a born bacterium that targets caterpillars . It interrupt their digestive system , effectively control their population . good for other wildlife , it ’s a intrust method acting among organic gardener .

Diatomaceous Earth

pitter-patter diatomaceous dry land around plants can deter cat . The o.k. powder exsiccate them , run to their dying . It ’s a safe , chemical - spare option for keeping gardens plague - free .

Netting

Using netting can physically block caterpillars from accessing plant . This barrier method protect flora while allowing sunlight and rain through , maintaining a sizable garden environment .

Eggshells

Crushing eggshells and spreading them around plants can deter cat . The sharp edge are uncomfortable for these cuss to navigate , providing an eco - well-disposed result to garden protection .

Peppermint Oil

red gum vegetable oil ’s strong scent repels caterpillars effectively . combine with weewee and spray around plant . This aromatic method not only dissuade pests but also leaves your garden smelling delicious .

11 Cheap and Easy Ways to Get Rid of Caterpillars for Good

Handpicking

© Gardening Know How

Handpicking

Neem Oil Spray

© Walmart

Neem Oil Spray

Birdhouses

© Stacy Ling

Birdhouses

Garlic Spray

© Gardener’s Path

Garlic Spray

Soap and Water

© Daily Express

Soap and Water

Companion Planting

© Zero Waste Homestead

Companion Planting

Bacillus Thuringiensis (Bt)

© Bonide

Bacillus Thuringiensis (Bt)

Diatomaceous Earth

© Farmer’s Almanac

Diatomaceous Earth

Netting

© urbanfarmer2570

Netting

Eggshells

© Gardenista

Eggshells

Peppermint Oil

© Southern Mom Loves

Peppermint Oil