I've had a tough time with squash bugs and SVB, which led to losing all my zucchini and pumpkins this year. Now I'm looking for advice on what steps I can take this fall to tackle this problem and give myself a better chance for next year. Should I till the soil, turn it, or mix in anything? I've heard these pests might be in the soil, and I'm really hoping for some tips to minimize their impact. Is there any hope, or is it a lost cause?
3 Answers
Honestly, there's not much you can do right now. It’s a good idea to clean up any garden debris to reduce hiding spots for pests. If you're worried about squash bugs, consider planting more pest-resistant varieties next year. The real prevention is using plant covers and careful hand pollination. It's tough, but nature has its ways!
This fall isn’t the best time for prevention; your focus should be on deterrents and thinking about replanting come spring. Even without pests, summer squash doesn't last too long. Interestingly, many people might overlook cucumber beetles, which are often a bigger problem for cucurbits. Keep an eye out for those next season!
I get how tedious that can be! It feels like I'm constantly watching my plants, and then they go wild while I'm gone. Maybe it's time to reevaluate if squash is the right fit for me.
You could treat the soil with certain products to target grubs, but I totally understand wanting to avoid chemicals. It can be tricky since some squash bugs may indeed overwinter in the soil. Turning the soil to freeze them is a possibility, and if you’re committed enough to brave the cold in January, go for it! Every little effort helps!
I love that determination! I really believe every little bit helps, especially if it means fewer pests later on.
Oh man, that sounds like the kind of answer I wasn't hoping to hear.