Attack of the armyworms!

A lesson I have yet to learn is to be vigilant!  I made the mistake of not checking my plants when they were healthy to look for aphids, caterpillars, etc.  Where the conscientious gardener would have spotted these pests early on and treated only a couple plants, I end up with a blighted garden because I didn't notice until the pest problem was rampant.

I did not take pictures of my aphid infestation, though in an earlier post I mentioned that they attacked when my plants were rather small.  The fall armyworm (which I believe is the species that have currently infested Cody Gardens) has spread from my sweet potato plant to the southern pea, okra, and the peanut!  They seem to be very indiscriminate in their culinary choices.  I've read this document which outlines their behavior.  I think it is pertinent that they search for nitrogen rich sources and particularly enjoy grasses (ie corn).   For control, I use a soap spray with eucalyptus oil and minced garlic.  This has proved effective against smaller pests.  For the larger caterpillars I hand pick them.  If I've learned anything from this experience - it is to look for the eggs and remove signs of them early!  I'm also tempted to try using a garlic spray early on to make my plants undesirable to the moths in the first place.

It was quite the set back to have my healthy, lovely garden demolished by these insects!  However, my Florida Gardening book does warn all potential gardeners that protecting gardens in Florida against pests is a time consuming and requires much diligence.

Damage to the sweet potato

Damage to the Southern Pea

A fuzzy picture of the culprit... resting on a bean