Are the leaves still safe to eat if they have holes?

Yes, just wash the leaves thoroughly to remove any pests or droppings. Simply trim away the heavily damaged parts before cooking.

How often should I check for pests?

Check your plants every 2 to 3 days during the growing season. Catching them early is the best way to keep your cabbage healthy.

Why are there holes in my Spring Cabbage leaves?

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for small green caterpillars.
Look for slimy trails on the soil or leaves.
Check for small dark droppings on the foliage.

Likely causes

Cabbage loopers
Most likely
How to tell: You will see irregular, jagged holes in the leaves and small green caterpillars hiding underneath. Look for tiny dark droppings on the leaf surfaces as well.
What to do: Pick the caterpillars off by hand in the early morning or evening. For larger infestations, apply a spray containing Bacillus thuringiensis, a natural bacteria that targets these pests without harming other insects.
Slugs and snails
Possible
How to tell: These pests leave behind slimy trails and tend to eat large sections from the edges of the leaves. They are most active at night or during damp, cool weather.
What to do: Set out shallow containers of beer or use copper tape around the base of your plants to deter them. You can also go out at night with a flashlight to handpick them off the plants.

When to worry

If the entire plant is being defoliated, you need to act immediately to save the head. A few small holes are normal and won't ruin your harvest.

Stopping it coming back

Cover your plants with lightweight garden fleece or row covers to prevent moths from laying eggs on the leaves. Keep the area around your cabbage patch clear of weeds and debris where pests hide.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your spring cabbage.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Are the leaves still safe to eat if they have holes?: Yes, just wash the leaves thoroughly to remove any pests or droppings. Simply trim away the heavily damaged parts before cooking.
How often should I check for pests?: Check your plants every 2 to 3 days during the growing season. Catching them early is the best way to keep your cabbage healthy.