How do I get rid of caterpillars?

Question

I feel bad that I am going to do this because I love caterpillars when they change into butterflies. I have a bistro table by my back door and it is creeping with caterpillars at the minute because of the plants I have near to it, I can`t sit there. How can I get them to go? Or how long will it take till they change into butterflies?

Answer 1

These caterpillars are probably crawling up the legs of the table and chairs.  Put a small bowl under each leg and fill it with water. It will work and you will still have use of the table. This outbreak will be short lived. Depending on the type anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks. Try and avoid using a pesticide against these caterpillars. Butterflies do help in the pollination of flowers. We need them!!

Answer 2

If they are falling or crawling directly onto the table from the plants why don't you just trim the plants back some or find another spot for the table?  If they are crawling up the table legs I would think you could just coat the legs with something to discourage that.  Maybe a little cooking oil or something?