Plant This

Re: EDITOR 16 Apr 2010 - 11:37:00 AM

Sounds like you're trying to do this the organic way - which I'd support.
It might be presumptuous but as you've indicated a willingness to hunt the caterpillars, I'd suggest further strategic vigilance.
It's easiest with an unblemished crop, but observe the leaves constantly for the first sign of damage. Don't let any nibble go without response. Inspect immediately – something HAS to be there. It's your best chance there's a critter right there and then (or very near the damage), waiting to be found and eliminated. Possibly a whole hatching. Fresher damage and fresher, larger droppings are locational clues if they've got away a bit. Get on top of them before they get on top of your plants.
I don't recommend the lengths my father goes to. He's old-school and not at all averse to using chemicals. But if he's in the garden and spots a butterfly or moth, his organic method is to crush it between his clapping hands – regardless of whether it's fertilising or laying. I reckon a caterpillar that's got to that stage deserves a chance to restart the competition.