Holes in Kale Leaves: Who Is Eating Them?
Leaves problem · common pattern reported by gardeners · verify locally
What you'll see
- Irregular holes in leaves
- Skeletonized leaves
- Green caterpillars or worms visible
Most common causes
- Cabbage worms (imported cabbageworm)
- Cabbage loopers
- Flea beetles (tiny round holes)
How to fix it
- Hand-pick caterpillars
- BT (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray
- Row covers
Prevention: Row covers from transplant Companion herbs (dill, thyme) Inspect weekly
More Kale problems
Grow Kale with confidence
Open the Kale growing guide → · Planting calendar · Pest & problem diagnoser
ZoneFig content reflects widely published extension-service and gardening guidance. Symptoms and causes are common patterns, not a diagnosis for any individual plant — verify locally and treat conservatively.