What pests commonly attack pumpkins?
Written by
Benjamin Miller
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Defend pumpkins from destructive pests. The squash bug, vine borer, and cucumber beetle attack the leaves, fruit, and stem. I use organic methods to control these unwanted invaders. Those tips have been developed through trial and error over five growing seasons. Start with a plan and prevention methods. Keeping a watchful eye ensures no little problems become a big catastrophe.
Physical Barriers
- Install floating row covers during seedling stage
- Use cardboard collars around stems to block borers
- Elevate fruits with vertical growing systems
Natural Repellents
- Plant marigolds as companion borders
- Apply neem oil sprays every 7-10 days
- Spread diatomaceous earth around plant bases
Cultural Controls
- Rotate crops annually to disrupt pest cycles
- Remove diseased foliage immediately
- Keep garden free of plant debris
Conduct daily inspections during peak pest seasons. Check under leaves for egg clusters and along stems for borer holes. I always carry a small knife for vine borer surgery when it's necessary. Your quick action saves the infected plant. A weekly spraying of Neem accompanies this for protection.
Create habitats for bugs that support your plan: ladybugs, lacewings, and so on. Predators that eat aphid and beetle larvae will find a home in your patch if you plant nectar-rich flowers nearby. I keep permanent alyssum borders to attract these allies, so your patch will ultimately be a self-regulating ecosystem.
Crop rotation Move your pumpkins to new beds each year to confound any pests that seek to reproduce on them. I practice a three-year crop rotation in my garden. Your soil will be healthier and less chemically dependent if kept in this state. Make notes as to where you plant each year.
Read the full article: How to Grow Pumpkins Successfully
