Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies, moths, and other types of winged insects. These ravenous pests come in many shapes and colors and, although beautiful, can quickly decimate a crop of their choosing. Preventative care includes the use of row covers, which block mama-bugs from laying eggs in your plants. If your garden has already been invaded, caterpillars can be hand-picked and exterminated. Sprays containing toxins from Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) are often used to control populations, but some caterpillars are resistant. Other organic pesticides include Spinosad, derived from a soil bacteria, and Pyrethrin, derived from the flowers of certain species of chrysanthemum.
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