Squash Bugs
Squash bugs are one of the most frustrating pests of squash and pumpkins in Southern gardens.
They feed by sucking plant juices and can cause severe wilting.
What They Look Like
Adults are:
- Flattened
- Brownish-gray
- About 1/2 to 3/4 inch long
Nymphs are:
- Smaller
- Gray or pale
- Often found in groups
Egg Masses
Look under leaves for clusters of bronze-colored eggs.
Egg removal is one of the easiest ways to reduce populations.
Damage
Squash bug feeding can cause:
- Yellow spots
- Wilting
- Blackened leaves
- Plant decline
Heavy populations can kill young plants.
Inspect Early
Check plants several times each week.
Pay attention to:
- Leaf undersides
- Crown area
- Mulch near stems
Remove Eggs
Scrape or crush egg masses before they hatch.
Hand-Pick Adults and Nymphs
Drop them into soapy water.
Boards placed near plants can sometimes trap adults underneath overnight.
Keep the Garden Clean
Remove spent vines after harvest.
Squash bugs may overwinter in garden debris.
Row Cover
Row cover can protect young plants before flowering.
Remove it when flowers need pollinators.
GardenGrowz Tip
With squash bugs, early egg removal is much easier than fighting hundreds of nymphs later.