Note: Cucurbits may be easily injured by formulations of some insecticides. It
is often a good precaution to not apply insecticides when foliage is wet. Be
sure to check label before using to make sure insecticide will not cause plant
injury and/or perform a small-scale test application to verify safety.
Dense infestations of squash bugs can occur on winter squashes. These bugs are usually of lesser importance on other cucurbits in our region. Squash bugs overwinter in plant remnants and become active in the late spring/early summer about the time of emergence of host plants. Females lay shiny brown barrel-shaped eggs in masses, one layer thick, on the undersides of leaves. A second generation will occur later in the season, and it is this more abundant generation that can cause serious injury to cucurbits, particularly winter squashes. Adults are gray-black in color and about 25 millimeters (one inch) in length. They have well developed visible piercing-sucking mouthparts, and the head is triangular-shaped when viewed from above.
Squash bug immatures and adults suck the sap from their host plants and in high densities may cause plant decline. Plants wilt and leaves become blackish when feeding is severe.
Winter mortality of overwintering adults may be high, particularly in the northern areas of our region. Parasitic wasps and flies may assist in natural control of this pest during the growing season.
Winter squashes are often heavily damaged by squash bugs. When using
insecticides, application must be thorough so that leaf undersides are covered.
Two treatments, the first initiated at first egg laying and a second
application 10 to 14 days later may provide acceptable season-long control.
Note: the following products are registered for winter squash or pumpkin, and may or may not be registered for other cucurbit crops. Check product labeling for usage restrictions.
|
Product list for Squash Bugs: |
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Insecticide |
Product per acre |
Preharvest Interval, Remarks |
|
Ambush 2ER,1 |
6.4-12.8 fl oz |
1 day. Pyrethroid insecticide. Maximum 1.6 lb (AI)/acre per season. |
|
carbaryl 1,2 |
1 lb (AI) |
0 days. Carbamate insecticide. All formulations except Sevin SLR+ are extremely hazardous to bees. Some rotational restrictions |
|
Endosulfan2 |
0.5-1.0 lb |
1 day. Chorinated hydrocarbon insecticide. Some rotational restrictions with root crops. |
|
Pounce 3.2EC R,1 |
4-8 fl oz (3.2E) |
1 day. Pyrethroid insecticide. Maximum 1.6 lb (AI)/acre per season. |
|
Capture 2ER,1 |
2.6 - 6.4 fl oz |
3 days. Pyrethroid insecticide. Maximum 0.3 lb (AI)/acre/season. |
|
RRestricted use pesticide. 1Labeled for chemigation 2Generic active ingredient, several formulations. |
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The information herein is supplied with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and that listing of commercial products, necessary to this guide, implies no endorsement by the authors or the Extension Services of Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming or Montana. Criticism of products or equipment not listed is neither implied nor intended. Due to constantly changing labels, laws and regulations, the Extension Services can assume no liability for the suggested use of chemicals contained herein. Pesticides must be applied legally complying with all label directions and precautions on the pesticide container and any supplemental labeling and rules of state and federal pesticide regulatory agencies. State rules and regulations and special pesticide use allowances may vary from state to state: contact your State Department of Agriculture for the rules, regulations and allowances applicable in your state and locality. |
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Categories: Insects, Cucurbits, Cucumber, Melons, Squash, Pumpkins, Squash bugs
Date: 09/15/2002