Rewilding My Lot

Converting a new developer lot into a nature ecosystem — my journey


Defending Corn From Caterpillars

When I first posted about the new spikes of corn growing in my Three Sisters Garden, someone asked whether I expected problems with them being nibbled on by squirrels. In the center of the housing development where I am, we have no mature trees and I don’t see squirrel visitors here yet.

However, I did suspect that I might have to defend against caterpillars, and that does seem to be the case. On one of the 20 corn stalks I saw these two grazers, who were promptly removed. Clearly I will need to watch for this activity.

My plan is to share this garden with nature, which will necessitate having some of my plants damaged. However, I will intervene manually (no chemicals) in the case of vegetables that I plan to eat, or for young/vulnerable plants that I feel are in danger.



One response to “Defending Corn From Caterpillars”

  1. […] All of the corn seeds germinated, although I see variable growth. Three weeks later the stalks varied in height from 2 to 8 inches. I have also had to patrol often to remove caterpillars. […]

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About Me

Nature Lover.
Inquisitive Observer.
Student Gardener.

I invite you to join me on my journey to convert my sterile (from a nature point of view) new house lot to a healthy and diverse ecosystem, as I make discoveries, mistakes, and hopefully progress. I am not an expert or professional. The project started in February 2023 and the location is Seguin, Texas, USA.