From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Centennial Colorado

Hi all,
I am wondering the best pesticide for squash bugs. I have lost many pumpkins to yvd over the years.
Thanks,
Leif

5/5/2024 5:30:15 PM

Westmoreland, KS

So a couple of things. 1) Plant a trap crop around your area I plant green Zucchini plants on all of the corners Squash bugs love them and they attack them first. I absolutely hammer these plants with insecticides. Pull off the flowers to avoid killing bees 2) Start way early spraying your plants. 3) Prevention is the only way. I've never stopped them once they set in it is too late.

[Last edit: 05/06/24 4:00:52 PM]

5/6/2024 8:51:41 AM

Merrimack NH

Talstar

5/6/2024 9:00:45 AM

Lexington, Ky

The best defense for Squash Bugs is to be extremely vigilant with your eyes and hands on attention to your plant(s), every day, looking at top and bottom of every leaf on every plant. If you see eggs, it's too late.

Trap plants as previously mentioned helps not only with Squash Bugs but also with Squash Vine Borers and Cucumber Beatles. I'm not sure that a contact spray like Talstar works but I still hit them with it if I see them.

Lure traps are available, I've never tried them myself though. I've seen some hacks over the years from growers that place some plywood or cardboard close to the plant that will attract them to seek refuge underneath.

A few years ago, I cut off a section of a leaf that had 12 Squash Bug eggs on it. I dropped them in a small container filled with pure bleach and put a lid on it. They hatched are were very much alive.

5/6/2024 10:52:06 PM

Bloomfield, Iowa

Warrior

5/9/2024 10:34:47 PM

Colorado

Talstar as a contact. Imidicloprid and trap plants. Ive had a lot better luck with trap plants than plywood boards as a attractant.

5/14/2024 12:52:21 AM