looper worms eat broccoli

We’ve munched our way through several salads. But towards the end, as the leaves become more bitter, we noticed an increase in worm activities. That was fine until we discovered these worms had made their way into the row-covered broccoli. That’s not good. Not good for us – I mean, it’s great if you are a looper. There are now so many worms inside the row cover, I’m thinking they may have been there before the cover was in place. Time for a little BT control I think.

buckshot basil leaves

And who is to blame for the buckshot basil leaves? Another worm maybe. But it’s the tiny little grasshopper who takes the rap.

mini grasshopper on lupine seedling

I can’t be sure it’s the grasshopper, but they are the only visible insects we consistently witness on these plants. Perhaps they are just in the wrong place at the wrong time and taking the blame for someone else’s hungry handiwork.

munched soybeans

A destructive visitor stopped by the soybean (aka edamame) rows just the other day. This is a bit sad. The tender tops of each plant carefully nibbled clean. At first I thought rabbit, but then I noticed it was only the first row that was damaged. So, it could be a deer who was reluctant to step inside the box, or a rabbit that was saving row two for another day. Do I replant these? They might have enough time.

sugar snap peas

Anne and I are also enjoying continued munching. Peas are coming on strong despite the dry conditions. And the service berry shrub/tree is providing wonderful blueberry flavored fruits. We need to plant more of these. Blueberries struggle in Iowa, but service berries are quite happy here. We are happy they are here too.

service berries