What are the main pests of brassicas?
Diamondback moth (DBM) and, to a lesser degree, heliothis are the two most important pests of brassicas but other caterpillar pests, aphids, thrips and silverleaf whitefly can also cause problems. During the first three to four weeks after planting, centre grub and cutworm are the most likely pests to cause damage in summer and autumn planted crops. Other caterpillar pests, thrips and silverleaf whitefly may also be active during crop establishment. Aphids can cause problems in seedlings, particularly during warm, mild conditions. Once the crop is established, DBM, heliothis, cabbage cluster caterpillar, cluster caterpillar, cabbage white butterfly, thrips and silverleaf whitefly are all likely problems. Hares, wallabies, kangaroos and ducks are only occasional pests of brassicas but they can cause significant damage. Feeding mice can damage broccoli and cauliflower heads.
