Plutella xylostella: Diamondback moth control for greenhouse growers
Learn how to identify and manage Diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) in greenhouse crops. Plus, find tips on biological control and monitoring strategies to protect seedlings and mature plants.
Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the November 2025 print edition of Greenhouse Management under the headline “Diamondback moth Plutella xylostella.”
The diamondback moth’s caterpillar larvae chew small circular holes in leaves from the undersides, giving the leaves a shot-hole appearance. Very high populations can defoliate plants. It attacks annuals and perennials, but it is a particularly avid attacker of cruciferous vegetable crops, like cabbage and broccoli.
Source: University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources IPM department, University of Florida Entomology Department
