Squash Vine Borer

Squash Vine Borer: (Size=1 inch)
Found east of the Rockies. The adult moth lays its eggs on the stems near the base of the plant in late spring to early summer. Fat, white caterpillars with brown heads hatch out and tunnel into the stems to feed, causing sudden wilting of all or part of a squash vine. If the stem of the wilted vine is cut open lengthwise, it will be filled with sawdustlike trass and often one or more caterpillars. The borer attacks squashes primarily, but will occasionally infest cucumbers and melons as well. In the Deep South there may be two generations per year; in the North, only one.

Controls:
Spray with an approved insecticide during the egg-laying period; direct spray to base of plant.

Slit open wilted vines and take out borer; cover cut with moist soil to encourage the vine to reroot.

Early in the season, cover plants with garden fabric; hand-pollinate plants if necessary.

Choose disease-resistant varieties.

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