I'm in my second year of gardening and facing a tough decision with my zucchini plants. Last year, I lost them to squash bugs and squash vine borers (SVB), but this season I thought I was prepared. I tried pest control, but after being away for a week, the squash bugs have taken over. I've spent hours trying to manage the infestation, but I'm beginning to question my sanity. At what point should I just give up and pull them out? Should I consider planting something else that might be more rewarding?
6 Answers
At this point, I've just given up on growing squash altogether. No more SVB problems for me!
I had a real breakthrough by using a torch on the squash bugs and their eggs! I was nervous about it, but it worked like a charm, and I didn't harm the plant. Just be careful and use common sense with fire. It's so satisfying to see those egg clusters pop like popcorn!
I totally relate to your struggle! I've spent countless hours battling these pests this year as well. It can be so frustrating, but sometimes you just have to roll with it and do what you can. If it makes you feel better, just know you're not alone in this fight!
I use netting or other physical barriers to keep them away, but you'll need to hand pollinate. A neat trick I read about is putting a cotton ball soaked in peppermint oil near the plants; it may confuse the bugs and SVB.
Knock on wood – I've been having some success injecting my zucchinis with BTK and using neem oil drenches on other squash types. It seems to be working well!
If things are that bad, I usually try planting a second round of zucchini in early July. They often survive better than the first batch when the older ones get wiped out. It might be a good strategy for you!
I love that idea! Fire seems like a fitting response to those pests. I'm totally here for that vengeance!