BTK is the easiest way to get rid of cabbage worms in your garden. This natural bacteria upsets the caterpillars' digestive system causing it to die. Spray on your plants following the directions on the bottle (I do every 1-2 weeks). Remember to reapply after it rains.

Diatomaceous earth is another effective way to deal with cabbage worms. This natural powder is sprinkled over your plants. It damages the skin of the caterpillars when they crawl through it causing them to dry out.

Hand-picking is another good option if you have a small garden. Check the cabbage plants every few days remembering to check the top and bottom of the leaves. Crush any eggs you find and pick the caterpillars into a can of soapy water.

Creating an environment that attracts beneficial insects to your garden can really help lower pest insects. Plant a variety of herbs and flowers that attract spiders, lacewings, predatory beetles and birds.

Preventing Cabbage Worms

If you want to prevent cabbage worms from getting at your plants the best thing to do is to cover them with bug netting as soon as you transplant the seedlings into your garden. Make sure to suspend the bug netting over the plants with hoops so that butterflies can’t land and lay their eggs through the cloth.