Vegetable Program
Insect Management

Diamondback Moth

Diamondback moth and imported cabbageworm are pests throughout the growing season, while cabbage looper generally does not become a pest until mid- to late-season.Diamondback moth adults are the smallest (<1/2 inch), light brown with a yellow diamond-shaped marking, and rest with their wings folded together like a tent. Caterpillars reach 3/4 inch in length, are light green, and are segmented and pointed at both ends. When disturbed they wiggle vigorously and may drop off the plant on a string of silk. Feeding causes small, round holes and tends to be spread across the foliage rather than concentrated in the head. Scout fields by checking leaves (underside) on 25 plants across the field.

In the Northeast, there is generally no need to treat young plants unless weather conditions delay plant development and at least 35% of them are infested with any of these pests. Treat plants between the start of heading and harvest if 20% or more of the plants are infested. The most critical time to scout and apply controls is just prior to head formation. Use a 10-15% threshold throughout the season for kale, collards and mustard.

Do not use less than 50 gal spray material/A; higher volumes provide better coverage. Better coverage of lower leaf surfaces can be achieved by using drop nozzles. Use a spreader-sticker.

Diamondback moth has become resistant to many synthetic and microbial insecticides. Even if you are getting excellent control of this pest with the materials presently being used, you should alternate between effective materials to retard development of resistance. Newer materials and the aizawai strain of Bacillus thuringiensis will usually provide better control of resistant DBM than older products. Use transplants grown in New England to avoid importing DBM that have already developed resistance to one or more classes of insecticides.

Incorporate crop residues shortly after harvest to reduce movement to successive plantings and reduce overwintering populations. Populations are suppressed by natural enemies, which include parasitic wasps that attack larvae. Use selective materials or microbial products, to spare beneficials that help control aphids, DBM and ICW populations.

For Current information on production methods (including varieties, spacing, seeding, and fertility), weed, disease, and insect management, please visit the New England Vegetable Management Guide website.

Below you will find additional information on managing this insect, including photos, fact sheets, articles, and power point presentations, when available.

Articles