What kind of caterpillar is on my mustard greens?

Oxalis

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A recent rain really exploded the size of my mustard greens :) but there also appears to be someone snacking on the leaves... :eek:

IMG_4784.jpg

Upon a closer look, we found 4 caterpillars, in the red circles below:
IMG_4785.jpg
Any ideas on what kind of caterpillar (location: southeast Michigan)? We sprayed them off with water and then captured them in a glass jar so they can't escape. We looked but we didn't see more than these four. I'm not sure what I should use on the plant to keep away any future bugs — the only thing I could think of was vinegar (a light spritzing of it with a spray bottle?). It looks like the ants may be interested in the plant too. Are there any more natural/non-chemical solutions to this problem since it's part of my tortoise garden? I have not yet sprayed any vinegar. Thanks! :<3:
 
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dmmj

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Soapy water works pretty good for ants on most of my plants.
 

Tom

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I get them here too. I never tried to let one mature to see what it turned into, but I see several types of moths flying around at night when I water my growing tables.

When I find those caterpillars, or any other caterpillar on my greens, I call them "dead". Or sometimes "squished". Any spiders that find their way inside my house get released on these greens tables to feast at will.

Its a war out there. Know who your enemies and allies are. :)

I also release mantids, lacewings and lady bug larvae. This makes a dent every year, but it doesn't eliminate the bugs. I don't want soap or vinegar on plants that I'm going to feed to my tortoises.
 

Oxalis

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