Question
hello,
I have a large container at the end of my sidewalk, I live in Maryland by the way,and in it I have planted petunias, they were doing great with lotts of beautiful blooms, I noticed here and there that something was munching on them, and then it seemed to happen over night, that they were really doing bad, I found this little green like catapillar in one of the blooms having a feast! Everything now is affected by them the leaves and the blooms, help do you know what they are, and what can I do to get rid of them?
I have a lab pup too that likes to come outside with me and garden, anything that I can use that will be safe for her just in case she may come in contact with it?
Thanks for any help that you may have.


Answer
The best product for catapillars is one whose active ingredient is Spinosad.  This is a natural bacteria that only effects catapillars, and won't hurt you or your dog, or the other insects, birds etc.  It comes in a variety of brand names, so ask at your garden center for a product with Spinosad in it.  Next most effective, and also a similar bacteria, is Bt.  If you can't find the spinosad, you should have no trouble finding Bt. Spray according to directions.  

In the meantime, pick off and step on all of the green catapillars you can find.

all the best,
C.L.