Dear Editor,
Many farmers have recently been faced with large amounts of caterpillars feasting on their crops. Some effective caterpillar prevention methods also have health benefits.
1. Planting of Lavender (benefits are the reduction of anxiety and the healing of wounds)
2. Planting of Sage (benefits are lowering the risk of cancer, improving memory and brain function)
3. Planting of Peppermint (benefits are the reduction of stomach pain, relieving of nausea and vomiting)
For the removal of caterpillars the following was suggested in addition to removing them by hand (Reference: Envirocon pest control). After all caterpillars do turn into butterflies, who add tremendous benefits to farmers via pollination, something very much needed after an extensive drought. For removal:
1. Spraying of soapy water
2. Spraying of neem oil
3. Spraying of garlic and soap solution,
Some other sources also suggest that having chickens will help. The chickens are one of their natural predators (smooth caterpillars only)
Sincerely,
Jamil Changlee
Chairman
The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana
