Oleanders are among the most gorgeous shrubs I know. The only problem is the caterpillars that love them as much as we do.

I planted two drawf oleanders in the side garden this past spring and they were flowering well. Unfortunately I made the mistake of planting a couple of elephant's ear rhizomes along with them and eventually they have overtaken the shrubs in height. I wouldn't mind that so much if the caterpillars hadn't used the cover as a great way to strip the poor oleander leaves down to the nub.

I've made the decision to move them to a sunnier spot and hope they will come back as hardy as when originally planted. I've also noticed that when the plants get more sun the caterpillars are not as prolific. That may not truly be the case, but it works for me. Happy Florida Gardening.