Organic Solutions for Slugs and Caterpillars on Broccoli

Broccoli attracts both slugs (night feeders) and caterpillars (day feeders). Each requires a different organic tactic.

Caterpillar Control: Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)

Bt (sold as Dipel, MVP) is a soil bacterium that produces proteins toxic only to caterpillars when ingested. It's harmless to humans, pets, bees, and beneficial insects. Dust or spray on foliage when caterpillars are small; reapply after rain. It stops feeding within hours; death follows in 1–3 days.

Slug Control: Iron Phosphate Baits

As with article 6733, Sluggo or Escar-Go are the gold standard. Scatter granules around plants in the evening. Avoid metaldehyde baits—they are toxic to dogs and wildlife.

Beer Traps: Supplemental Only

Beer traps (shallow containers filled with beer) catch some slugs but require frequent maintenance and don't control populations alone. Use as a monitoring tool, not a primary strategy.

Cultural Practices

• Mulch with straw or wood chips (not heavy, wet leaves).
• Space plants for air circulation.
• Water at soil level in the morning.
• Rotate brassicas yearly to disrupt pest cycles.

Combining Bt for caterpillars and iron phosphate for slugs gives your broccoli the best organic protection.