Image: Cabbage Leaf Infested with Worms and Aphids

This highly detailed, close-up image shows a cabbage leaf heavily infested by two common garden pests: cabbage worms and aphids. The leaf spans the entire frame in a soft, natural green tone, its surface displaying a prominent network of veins that run from the central rib outward, creating a visually striking pattern. The lighting is bright but diffused, giving the leaf a fresh, healthy sheen despite the clear pest damage present.

On the left side of the image, several plump, bright green cabbage worms—larvae of the cabbage white butterfly—crawl along the leaf surface. Their bodies are elongated and cylindrical, covered in tiny, delicate hairs that catch the light. Each worm appears slightly curved as it moves, and their segmented bodies reveal subtle shading that enhances the sense of texture and depth. Their coloration blends remarkably well with the cabbage leaf, demonstrating how easily they can hide from predators and gardeners alike.

On the right side of the leaf, there is a dense, teeming cluster of pale green aphids. They vary in size, indicating a mix of life stages, from newly hatched nymphs to more mature individuals. The aphids gather tightly around a section of the leaf, close to one of the main veins, forming an irregular patch that stands out both in color and texture. Their soft, pear-shaped bodies appear slightly translucent, and a few winged individuals may be discernible among the group. The aphids’ presence is further signaled by a faint white residue, likely honeydew or cast-off skins, which adds to the realism of the scene.

Toward the lower right section of the leaf, small holes are visible—evidence of feeding damage caused by the pests. These irregularly shaped perforations reveal the leaf’s vulnerability and highlight the destructive impact of cabbage worms in particular. The combination of chewed edges, aphid clustering, and the movement of the worms conveys a dynamic sense of an active infestation.

Altogether, the image serves as an informative and visually compelling depiction of pest pressure on cabbage plants. It illustrates not only the appearance of these common insects but also the distinctive damage they cause, making it a useful visual reference for gardeners, educators, and agricultural professionals.

The image is related to: The Complete Guide to Growing Cabbage in Your Home Garden