Cucumbers, muskmelons and watermelons have similar cultural requirements. They are warm season vegetables and will not tolerate frost or soil temperatures below 55°F. Early and total yields are increased with plastic mulch. Either black or clear plastic may be used; but with clear plastic, a preemergence herbicide is necessary. On farms with several small fields, it is usually easier to use black plastic than to have the inconvenience of herbicide applications with clear plastic. Before the plastic is laid, be sure the soil is fertilized and fitted to a smooth surface. The plastic should fit snugly against the surface. Do not lay plastic on dry soil; either irrigate or wait for rain.

In conjunction with plastic mulching, plastic with hoops and spunbonded row covers will provide earlier and higher yields. Apply the covers at the time of planting and leave on until the time for pollination by bees (bloom). These crops can withstand high temperatures under the covers.

Soils that warm up fast in the spring are preferred to heavier soils that remain cool. Muskmelon should be grown on very well-drained soil for optimum quality. Raised beds provide additional benefits. The soil should be fertile and high in organic matter. On sandy soils, irrigation is necessary.

Cucumbers may be direct seeded or started as transplants. The latter method is preferred for early crops. Because of the long season required for muskmelon and watermelon, transplants are used. The plants should be about three weeks old, with one to two true leaves at transplanting time. Older transplants that have begun to run are difficult to handle and suffer greater transplant shock. Peatlite mix in peat pots or peat pellets are excellent starting media. Keep pots or pellets thoroughly moist but not soaking wet.

In some growing seasons, vine crops that recently have been transplanted or recently have germinated, suddenly wilt and die. Most often, this situation occurs during a period of four to five days of rainy or cloudy weather. Without sunshine, soil temperatures drop below 55°F to 60°F. At these soil temperatures the plant roots cannot absorb water from the soil. Consequently, when the sun does reappear, water transpires from the leaves much more rapidly than the roots absorb water, resulting in sudden wilting and death. Basically, there is no control for this problem, except to attempt to manipulate planting around weather forecasts. Earlier planting dates increase susceptibility to this problem.

A sufficient number of pollinating insects should be present to insure adequate fruit set in cucumber and melons. One strong hive of honeybees per acre as flowers just begin to open is recommended.

Varieties

CUCUMBERS

The number in parentheses is the approximate number of days to maturity from seeding.

Pickles	A	AL	DM	CMV	PRSV	WMV 2	ZYMV	NB	PM	S
Cross Country (51)	x	x	x						x	x
Lavayette (52)	x	x	x	x					x	x
Fancipack (53)	x	x	x	x					x	x
Callypso (53)	x	x	x	x					x	x
Eureka (56)	x	x	x	x	x	x	x		x	x
Slicers
Speedway (54)	x	x	x	x
Dasher II (58)	x	x	x	x
General Lee (58)	x	x	x	x
Panther (58)	x	x	x	x
Marketmore 76 (OP) (58)			x	x					x	x
Turbo (65)	x	x	x	x					x	x
European/Beit Alpha
Diva (58)	x		x					x	x	x
Sweet Slice (63)	x	x		x				x		x

 

MUSKMELON

SPECIALTY MELONS

*May be injured by sulfur sprays

WATERMELON

Tolerant to: Anth: Anthracnose;   F: Fusarium;    PM: Powdery Mildew;    AL: Angular Leaf Spot;    S: Scab;    DM: Downy Mildew;    CMV: Cumber Mosaic Virus;    WMV-2: Satermelon Mosaic Virus, strain 2;                   ZYMV; Zucchini Yellow Mosaic Virus;    S: Scab

Spacing and Seeding

Slicing cucumbers can be transplanted or direct seeded to 2’ between plants and 6’ between rows. Pickling cucumbers should be direct seeded to 6” to 8” between plants and 3 to 6 feet between rows depending on the cultivar. Most of the recent cultivars should be planted at 3 feet between rows. Muskmelons and watermelons should be transplanted at the second leaf stage to 2’ between plants and 4’ to 6’ between rows.

Lime

Apply lime according to soil test to maintain soil pH at 6.0 to 6.8. Watermelon can tolerate pH down to 5.5.

Fertilizer

Less nitrogen fertilizer will be needed if manure or legume sod was plowed down (see Nitrogen Credits on Page 6).

If the fertilizer cannot be banded at planting, add the band fertilizer amount to preplant broadcast application.

If growing plants on plastic mulch, nitrogen can be applied through trickle or overhead irrigation or sidedressed along the edge of the plastic mulch. Nitrogen under the plastic mulch is protected from leaching. Foliar feeding rate is 4 to 5 lb urea/A.

If using transplants, use of a liquid starter fertilizer at planting time is beneficial, especially with cool soil conditions. Use a high phosphorus starter fertilizer mixed at a rate 2 lb/50 gal water. Apply 8 fl oz (1 cup) per transplant.

Harvest

Harvest cucumbers on a regular basis to obtain a maximum number of fruits. Unless muskmelons are to be shipped, harvest at full slip, that is, when the stem has almost completed its natural separation from the fruit. The best stage to harvest is when a slight twist of the melon will cause the stem to separate. Only well-netted muskmelons should be harvested; fruits without a good netting have, for some reason, been stunted in growth and will not have a good flavor. Hold muskmelons for one to two days at 70°F for final ripening; for longer periods of storage, maintain a temperature of 50°F to 55°F.

Watermelon varieties vary in maturity indicators. The proper time to harvest has to be learned by experience (and perhaps by wasting a few fruits). However, a couple of indicators do help. When the tendril on the vine at the juncture of the fruit stem turns brown, the watermelon is close to maturity. A bright yellow ground spot on the underside of the fruit also indicates maturity. The thumping method works after some experience with ripe melons. Store watermelons at 50°F to 55°F.

Weed Control

NOTE:  For the herbicides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (common name) as an example of rates, days to harvest (dh), REI, and special instructions. In many cases there are other products available with the same active ingredient. Please see Table 17 and Alphabetical Listing by Trade Name for more information on products with the same active ingredients. 

Seeded Without Plastic

clomazone (Command 3ME): 6 to 16 oz/A (REI 12h, Group 13). Apply after seeding to the soil surface. For melons (muskmelon and watermelons), the maximum rate cannot exceed 10 oz/A. Will control many broadleaf weeds including common lambsquarters, velvetleaf, and jimsonweed. Combining with Curbit will also control pigweed species. Some temporary crop injury (partial whitening of leaf or stem tissue) may be visible after crop emergence. Complete recovery will occur from minor early injury without affecting yield or earliness. See label for replanting restrictions.

ethalfluralin (Curbit 3EC): 3 to 4 1/2 pt/A (REI 12h, Group 3). Apply to soil surface immediately after seeding. Do not incorporate. Irrigation or rainfall within five days of application is needed for good weed control. Do not use under mulches, row covers or hot caps. May be banded between rows of plastic mulch. Use during cold, wet weather can result in crop injury or stunting.

ethalfluralin + clomazone (Strategy 2.1 lb/gal): 2 to 6 pt/A (REI 24h, Groups 3 and 13). Apply after seeding and before crop emergence for cucumbers and melons grown on bare ground. Do not incorporate. May also be applied between plastic for crops grown either from seed or transplants. Set equipment to avoid application over the plastic mulch. Irrigation or rainfall is needed within 5 days of application for good weed control. Do not use under mulches, row covers, or hot caps. Use during cold, wet weather, or prior to heavy rains can result in crop injury or stunting. See label for list of weeds and use precautions.

halosulfuron: (Sandea 75 WSG): 1/2 to 1 oz/A (30 dh, REI 12h, Group 2). Cucumbers only. Apply after seeding and before crop emergence. Use the lower rate on lighter textured soil. Heavy rains following applications will increase the potential for crop injury. See the label for other precautions and a list of weeds controlled. Consider using Sandea as a supplement to Strategy (ethafluralin + clomazone) in cases where Strategy has not provided sufficient weed control and when a postemergence application is not practical. This treatment may also be used on cantaloupes, honeydew melons, and crenshaw melons (57 dh) but NOT muskmelons.

naptalam (Alanap 2EC): 1 to 1 1/2 gal/A (REI 48h, Group 19). Apply immediately after seeding. Effective only if rainfall occurs or irrigation is applied within 24 to 48 hours of application. Can also be used to improve the broadleaf weed control activity of ethalfluralin (Curbit).

Seeded or Transplanted

bensulide (Prefar 4E): 5 to 6 qt/A); or bensulide (Prefar 4E): 1 1/2 gal/A plus naptalam (Alanap) 1 gal/A preplant incorporated (REI 48h, Groups 8 and 9). Must be thoroughly incorporated to a depth of 1” to 2” before planting. Used primarily where grasses are a serious problem. May be applied preemergence to seeded crops if 1” of rainfall or irrigation follows application.

DCPA (Dacthal W75): 8 to 12 lb/A (REI 24h, Group 3). Apply only when plants have four to five true leaves, are well established, and growing conditions are favorable for good growth. If weeds have emerged, crop should be cultivated and weeded prior to application. May also be banded to weed-free soil between rows of plastic mulch.

Stale Seedbed

Also, see Stale Seedbed Technique on page 45.

Prepare field 10 to 14 days or more prior to planting. Allow weeds to germinate. Prior to transplanting or after seeding apply paraquat (Gramoxone Inteon 2S*) at 2.0 to 4.0 pt/A. Add a nonionic surfactant at 8 to 32 oz/100 gal of spray. Avoid contact between spray and crop cotyledons or foliage. Bensulide (Prefar) may be incorporated at time of field preparation to provide some residual control of annual grasses (see recommendation under Clear Plastic). Gramoxone Inteon 2S* is a contact herbicide and will control only those annual weeds that have emerged at the time of application.

pelargonic acid (Scythe 4.2): 3 to 10 gal/A (REI 24h, Group 27). See Stale Seedbed Technique.

Postemergence

clethodim (Select 2 EC): 6 to 8 oz/A (14 dh, REI 24h, Group 1). Apply to actively growing grasses. See label for grass height and herbicide rate. Always use a crop oil concentrate at a rate of 1 gal/100 gal spray mix. See both container label and supplemental label available from dealer.

halosulfuron (Sandea 75 WSG): 1/2 to 1 oz/A (30 dh, REI 12h, Group 2). Cucumbers only. Apply after the crop has reached the 2-5 true leaf stage but before the first female flowers appear for control of nutsedge and many broadleaf weeds. May also be used over transplants on bare ground after the transplants are established and actively growing (at least 14 days). Use the lower rate on lighter textured soils. Heavy rains following application will increase the potential for crop injury. See the label for other precautions and a list of weeds controlled. This treatment may also be used on cantaloupes, honeydew melons, and crenshaw melons (57 dh) but NOT muskmelons.

paraquat (Gramoxone Inteon 2S*): 2.0 to 4.0 pt/A (REI 12h, Group 22). Apply as a directed and shielded spray to emerged weeds between rows of cucumbers or melons. Crop contact by the spray will cause severe injury or death. For use in CT, ME and NH only.

pelargonic acid (Scythe 4.2): 3% to 10% (REI 24h, Group 27). Use a 3-5% solution for annual weeds (4-6 oz/gal water, a 5-7% solution for biennial and perennial weeds (6-9 oz/gal water), and 7-10% solution for maximum burndown (9-13 oz/gal water). Delivery rate for boom applications should be 75 to 200 gal spray solution/A; complete coverage of weed foliage is essential. Use a DIRECTED/SHIELDED SPRAY; contact with crop will cause injury. For hand-held equipment, spray to completely wet all weed foliage but not to the point of runoff. Repeat applications as necessary. Tank mixes are allowed with this product. These include tank mixes with glyphosate (Roundup), sulfosate (Touchdown), and residual herbicides. See label for complete details.

sethoxydim (Poast 1.53EC): 1 to 2 pt/A (14 dh, REI 12h, Group 1). Apply with crop oil concentrate at 2 pt/A. Apply to actively growing weed grasses (see product label for susceptible stage of growth). Do not cultivate for five days prior or seven days after Poast application. During periods of high temperature and/or high humidity some flowers may be damaged or dislodged.

Between Black Plastic Rows

See Weed Management section.

ethalfluralin + clomazone (Strategy 2.1 lb/gal): 2 to 6 pt/A (REI 24h, Groups 3 and 13). Apply after seeding and before crop emergence for cucumbers and melons grown on bare ground. Do not incorporate. May also be applied between plastic for crops grown either from seed or transplants. Set equipment to avoid application over plastic mulch. Irrigation or rainfall is needed within five days of application for good weed control. Do not use under mulches, row covers, or hot caps. Use during cold, wet weather, or prior to heavy rains can result in crop injury or stunting. See label for list of weeds and use precautions.

halosulfuron (Sandea 75 WSG): 1/2 to 1 oz/A (30 dh cucumbers, 57 dh melons, REI 12h, Group 2). Cucumbers and all melons. Apply between rows of direct seeded and transplanted cucurbit vegetables for control of nutsedge and many broadleaf weeds. Will provide both preemergence and postemergence control of many weed species. Avoid contact of the herbicide with the planted crop. If plastic is used on the planted row, adjust equipment to keep the herbicide off the plastic. Reduce rate and spray volume in proportion to the area actually sprayed. See the label for other precautions and a list of weeds controlled.

naptalam (Alanap, Group 19) and/or ethalfluralin (Curbit, Group 3) can be applied after plastic is laid. Use rates suggested for seeded or transplanted crop. Reduce the rate in proportion to area covered. Spray only the soil area between the plastic strips and avoid any crop contact. Irrigate if rainfall does not occur within 24 hours.

Under Clear Plastic

See Weed Management section.

bensulide (Prefar 4E): 5 to 6 qt/A (REI 12h, Group 8) just prior to laying plastic. Must be thoroughly incorporated to depth of 1” to 2”. One inch of irrigation or rainfall may be substituted for mechanical incorporation prior to laying plastic.

Insect Control

NOTE:  For the insecticides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (common name) as an example of rates, days to harvest (dh), REI, and special instructions. In many cases there are other products available with the same active ingredient. Please see Table 20 and Alphabetical Listing by Trade Name for more information on products with the same active ingredients.

Caution: Insecticides should not be applied when bees are active in the field. If application of an insecticide is necessary during blossom, apply it in the evening after the bees have left the field. Pyrethroids and carbamates are highly toxic to honey bees. Neonicotinoids are highly toxic to bees and are labeled for soil application only in cucurbits.

Aphids

Aphids found in cucurbits include green peach aphid and melon aphid. See Peppers for more information about green peach aphid. Melon aphid has a wide host range; vegetable crops attacked include cucurbits, asparagus, pepper, eggplant and okra. Among cucurbits, it is more serious on cucumber, muskmelon and watermelon than in squash and pumpkins. Varieties differ in susceptibility. Melon aphid overwinters in the north on woody plants including catalpa and rose of Sharon; more southerly, adults survive on cold tolerant plants including spinach and dock. Life cycle is similar to green peach aphid; winged females colonize crops in early summer, and wingless females produce live young for about 15 days (70-80 offspring per female) resulting in multiple generations. The time from birth to reproductive adult can be one week. Wingless females are 1-2 mm long. Color varies from light green mottled with dark green (most common) to white, yellowish or dark green. The cornicles at tip of abdomen are always black, a key diagnostic feature. Melon aphid outbreaks are more common in hot, dry weather.

Infestations occur on undersides of leaves where aphids extract plant sap with their piecing sucking mouthparts. Feeding causes yellowing, puckering, leaf curling, and leaf death at high numbers along with shiny honeydew deposits and buildup of sooty mold. Viruses transmitted by melon aphid include cucumber mosaic, watermelon mosaic, and zucchini yellow mosaic. Because transmission occurs within 15 seconds of feeding, insecticides may not prevent initial virus infection though they may reduce its spread in the crop. Oils may reduce virus transmission but test for phytotoxicity.

Use row covers or reflective plastic mulch to prevent early infestation and virus transmission (direct seeding is recommend in reflective mulch for maximum effectiveness). Cultivars differ in susceptibility to aphid buildup and to virus; plant resistant varieties if they are available. Separate early and late plantings. Use selective insecticides for other pests to conserve natural enemies.

Scout for aphids beginning in mid June by searching undersides of leaves on runners. If 20 percent of runners or more have live aphids treatment may be needed. Good coverage of undersides of leaves is needed for control.

acetamiprid (Assail 30 SG): 2.5 to 4 dry oz/A (7 dh, REI 12h, Group 4). Toxic to bees exposed to direct treatment; do not apply while bees are active.

azadirachtin (Neemix 4.5): 5 to 7 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 18). Suppression and adult feeding deterrence. OMRI listed.

bifenthrin (Capture* 2EC): 2.6 to 6.4 oz/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

dimethoate (Dimethoate 4EC): 1/2 to 2 pt/A for watermelon; 1 pt/A for other melons (3 dh, REI 48h, Group 1B). Do not use on cucumbers.

dinotefuran (Safari 20SG): 0.16 to 0.32 dry oz/1,000 sq ft or 3.5 to 7 dry oz/100 gal/20,000 sq ft (1 dh, REI 12h, Group 4). Cucumber and melon transplants while in greenhouse. Not for field use.

dinotefuran (Venom 20SG): 7 to 14 dry oz/A foliar or 18 to 21 dry oz/A soil (1 dh foliar, 21 dh soil, REI 12h, Group 4A). For resistance management purposes, do not use foliar spray after soil application or following another nicotinoid (Group 4A) insecticide application on the same crop. Highly toxic to bees, avoid foliar application during bloom. 

endosulfan (Thionex* 50W): 1 to 2 lbs/A (2 dh, REI 24h, Group 2A).

flonicamid (Beleaf 50SG): 2 to 2.8 dry oz/A (0 dh, REI 12, Group 9C).

imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 7 to 10.5 oz/A (21 dh, REI 12h, Group 4A). Systemic insecticide used as an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone during or after planting/transplanting operations. May also be used in planthouse at 0.44 oz/10,000 plants. See plant-back restrictions. Note: Provado IS NOT registered for use on cucurbits.

insecticidal soap (M-Pede): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water (0 dh, REI 12h). Spray to wet all infested plant surfaces. May require repeated applications. Apply with another aphicide. OMRI listed.

lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior*): 3.8 oz/A (1 dh, REI 24h, Group 3A).

malathion (Malathion 57 EC): 1 1/2 pt/A (1 dh, REI 12h, Group 1B). Do not apply unless plants are dry.

methomyl (Lannate* SP): 1/2 to 1 lb/A (1 dh for 1/2 lb/A; 3 dh for over 1/2 lb/A, REI 48h, Group 1A). For melon aphid.

pymetrozine (Fulfill): 2.75 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 9A). For both melon and green peach aphid. Thorough spray coverage of plant foliage is essential for optimum control. Translaminar.

pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0): 4.5 to 18 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A). OMRI listed. May be used in greenhouse or field.

pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide (Pyrenone): 1 tsp/gal, or 1 to 12 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).  May be used in greenhouse or field.

sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 100 oz/100 gal (0.5 dh, REI 12h, Group 25). Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper, sulfur or oils. CT only.

thiamethoxam (Actara): 2 to 3 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 4). Highly toxic to bees exposed to direct treatment or residues on blooming crops. Do not apply or allow to drift to blooming crops or weeds. Wait at least 5 days before placing beehives in or near the treated field.

thiamethoxam (Platinum): 5 to 11 oz/A (30 dh, REI 12h, Group 4). Systemic insecticide used as an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone during or after planting/transplanting operations. DO NOT apply as a foliar spray.

Cucumber Beetle

Striped cucumber beetles are about 7mm long, yellow with three black stripes that reach the end of the forewings, a yellow thorax and black head. Adults overwinter in field edges near last year’s crop, with a small proportion remaining in the field. With the onset of warm days, beetles move rapidly into young crops. Adults cause direct feeding damage to cotyledons, leaves and the base of the stem. Eggs are laid in soil and larvae feed on roots. After the pupal stage is completed in the soil, summer adults emerge. These adult beetles congregate in flowers and may cause damage to fruit.

Beetle feeding spreads bacterial wilt to young plants, especially before the 5-leaf stage. Cucumber and muskmelon are highly susceptible to wilt; watermelon is not. To prevent bacterial wilt in susceptible crops, scout for beetles twice weekly at the seedling stage. Treat when beetle numbers reach 1 beetle per 2 plants, up to the five leaf stage.

Use crop rotation to reduce beetle numbers. Spunbonded row covers exclude beetles; use hoops to prevent abrasion and remove at flowering to allow pollination. Transplants may allow plants to reach a later growth stage before beetles arrive. Some repellents or systemics may be applied to transplants outside the greenhouse before setting in the field, which is convenient and allows lower rates of application. Some may be applied through drip irrigation. Use a perimeter trap crop of Blue Hubbard or another Cucurbita maxima variety and treat borders with a systemic at planting or with a foliar insecticde as soon as the first beetles arrive, to protect a main crop of cucumbers and melons from beetle damage. If multiple treatments are needed, rotate to a product with a different mode of action (different group number).

acetamiprid (Assail 30 SG): 2.5 to 5.3 dry oz/A (7 dh, REI 12h, Group 4). Toxic to bees exposed to direct treatment; do not apply while bees are active.

beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 2.4 to 2.8 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

bifenthrin (Capture* 2 EC): 2.6 to 6.4 oz/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 qt/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 1A). Highly toxic to bees; avoid use during bloom when bees are active; apply in evening. May encourage buildup of aphids by killing natural enemies. Do not apply when foliage is wet.

deltamethrin (Decis* 1.5EC): 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

endosulfan (Thionex* 50W): 1 to 2 lb/A (2 dh, REI 24h, Group 2A).

esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

fenpropathrin (Danitol* 2.4EC): 10.7 to 16 oz/A (7 dh, REI 24, Group 3).

imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 7 to 10.5 oz/A (21 dh, REI 12h, Group 4A). Systemic insecticide used as an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone during or after planting/transplanting operations. DO NOT apply as a foliar spray. Note: Provado IS NOT registered for use on cucurbits.

kaolin (Surround WP): 25 to 50 lb/A or 1/4 to 1/2 lb/gal for backpack sprayer (0 dh, REI 4h). Suppression and repellence only. May be applied to transplants prior to setting in field. Use on seedlings and young plants. Product residue may need to be washed off if applied after fruit set. White residue may be minimized if applications stop when fruit is 1/4 of its expected harvest size. Follow label instructions for mixing. Generally compatible as a tank mix with other insecticides. OMRI listed.

lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior*): 2.5 to 3.8 oz/A (1 dh, REI 24h, Group 3A).

malathion (Malathion 57 EC): 2 pt/A (1 dh, REI 12h, Group 1B). Not for cucumber. 

methomyl (Lannate* SP): 1/2 to 1 lb/A (1 dh for 1/2 lb/A, 3 dh for over 1/2 lb/A, REI 48h, Group 1A).

permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0): 4.5 to 18 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A). OMRI listed.

pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide (Pyrenone): 1 tsp/gal, or 1 to 12 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

thiamethoxam (Actara): 2 to 3 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 4). Highly toxic to bees exposed to direct treatment or residues on blooming crops. Do not apply or allow to drift to blooming crops or weeds. Wait at least 5 days before placing beehives in or near the treated field.

thiamethoxam (Platinum): 5 to 11 oz/A (30 dh, REI 12h, Group 4). Systemic insecticide used as an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone during or after planting/transplanting operations. DO NOT apply as a foliar spray.

zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 3 to 4.3 oz/A (1 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A). 

Cutworm

Caterpillars hide under the soil surface adjacent to the plant stem during the day and feed on stems after dark. For best results, make application between midnight and dawn while cutworms are feeding aboveground. Synthetic pyrethroids (Group 3A) may work best during cool weather in April and May. See cutworms in the Pepper and Tomato (Outdoor) sections for more information on the black and variegated cutworms.

Bacillus thuringiensis aizawai (XenTari): 0.5 to 2 lb/A (0 dh, REI 4h, Group 11). Must be ingested; apply in evening before larvae are actively feeding and direct sprays to base of stem. OMRI listed.

beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 0.8 to 1.6 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

bifenthrin (Capture* 2EC): 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A (7 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

carbaryl (10% Sevin Granules): 10 lb/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 1A).

deltamethrin (Decis* 1.5EC): 1 to 2.4 oz/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior*): 2.5 to 3.8 oz/A (1 dh, REI 24h, Group 3A).

methomyl (Lannate* SP): 1/2 lb/A (1 dh for 1/2 lb/A, 3 dh for over 1/2 lb/A, REI 48h, Group 1A). For variegated cutworm.

permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide (Pyrenone): 1 tsp/gal, or 1 to 12 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A). 

zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 1.4 to 4.3 oz/A (1 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).  

Flea Beetle

Shiny black beetles less than 1/8” long that hop like fleas. Adults spend the winter under plant residue along tree lines or in the field. Numerous tiny feeding “shot holes” can injure leaves and stunt young plants. Management practices include clean cultivation, crop rotation, use of row covers, and applying spot treatments targeting young plants along the field edges. Row covers must be removed by bloom for pollination. Cucumbers and melons rarely require treatment for flea beetles. Most insecticides registered to control cucumber beetle will also control FB.

carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 qt/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 1A). Highly toxic to bees; avoid use during bloom when bees are active; apply in evening. May encourage buildup of aphids by killing natural enemies. Do not apply when foliage is wet.

deltamethrin (Decis* 1.5EC): 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

endosulfan (Thionex* 50W): 1 to 2 lb/A (2 dh, REI 24h, Group 2A).

lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior*): 2.5 to 3.8 oz/A (1 dh, REI 24h, Group 3A).

methomyl (Lannate* SP): 1/2 to 1 lb/A (1 dh for 1/2 lb/A, 3 dh for over 1/2 lb/A, REI 48h, Group 1A).

pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0): 4.5 to 18 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A). OMRI listed.

pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide (Pyrenone): 1 tsp/gal, or 1 to12 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

thiamethoxam (Actara): 2 to 3 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 4). Highly toxic to bees exposed to direct treatment or residues on blooming crops. Do not apply or allow to drift to blooming crops or weeds. Wait at least 5 days before placing beehives in or near the treated field.

thiamethoxam (Platinum): 5 to 11 oz/A (30 dh, REI 12h, Group 4). Systemic insecticide used as an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone during or after planting/transplanting operations. DO NOT apply as a foliar spray.

Two-spotted Spider Mite

Outbreaks are often caused by the use of broad-spectrum insecticides. Two-spotted spider mites (TSSM) tend to be prone to pesticide resistance. Watch for white speckling on the upper surface of leaves or webbing on the undersurface around leaf veins. Avoid early-season, broad-spectrum insecticide applications for other pests. Use selective products whenever possible. With most miticides (not bifenazate), use 2 applications, approximately 5 to 7 days apart, to help control immature mites that were in the egg stage and protected during the first application. Alternate between products after 2 applications to help prevent or delay resistance. For more information on TSSM, see the Eggplant section.

abamectin (Agri-Mek* 0.15EC): 8 to 16 oz/A (7 dh, REI 12h, Group 6).

bifenazate (Acramite 50WS): 0.75 to 1 lb/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 25).

bifenthrin (Capture* 2 EC): 5.1 to 6.4 oz/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

dicofol (Kelthane 50WSP): 1.25 lbs/A (2 dh, REI 48h, Group 2B). Do not apply more than twice per season.

fenpropathrin (Danitol* 2.4EC): 10.7 to 16 oz/A (7 dh, REI 24, Group 3).

lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior*): 3.8 oz/A (1 dh, REI 24h, Group 3A). Suppression only.

neem oil (Trilogy): 0.5 to 2% solution in 25 to 100 gal water/A (0dh, REI 4h, Group 18). Avoid mid-day applications and ensure good coverage. OMRI listed.

sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 50 oz/100 gal (0.5 dh, REI 12h, Group 25). Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper, sulfur or oils. CT only.

spiromesifen (Oberon 2SC): 7 to 8.5 oz/A (7 dh, REI 12h, Group 23). Immature mites.

Seedcorn Maggot

Soils that are high in organic matter (decaying manure or vegetable matter), especially in cool wet springs, attract the egg-laying female flies. Not generally a problem in sandy soils.

Squash Bug and Squash Vine Borer

Squash bugs are generally controlled by clean cultivation, crop rotation and sprays for cucumber beetle, but are often resistant to all but a few insecticides (i.e. bifenthrin). If possible, rotate cucurbit crops between fields separated by at least 1/2 mile. Scout undersides of leaves for squash bug adults and eggs and treat if the copper-colored egg masses exceed one per plant. Time squash bug sprays to kill young nymphs which are easiest to control. Thorough coverage is necessary. Treat late in the day to reduce risk to bees. Keep headlands mowed and free of trash to reduce overwintering sites. Clean cultivation helps reduce populations, while use of mulches and reduced-tillage favors squash bug survival. Squash and pumpkins are preferred hosts compared with cucumbers and melons. In Southwestern states, melons are protected from bugs and cucurbit yellow vine disease using perimeter trap cropping. Plant a perimeter of squash (summer, Hubbard, marrow) a week or two before planting or transplanting melons. Spray adult bugs at the base of the trap crop with an effective insecticide just before melons emerge or before transplanting, and 5 to 10 days later. See squash bugs in the Pumpkin and Squash section for more information.

Squash vine borer is more likely to be a problem where infestations were heavy the previous year and on thick-stemmed squash and pumpkins. Monitor for moths with a Scentry Heliothis Trap from early June through early August. Treat if more than 5 moths per week are caught. Scout for squash vine borer starting in late June by inspecting stems for frass. Control newly hatched larvae by making 2 to 4 applications at one-week intervals beginning in late June or early July. Timing is important. Thoroughly treat stems. Treat late in the day to avoid injury to bees. Some selective materials, such as spinosad (SpinTor or Entrust), provide excellent control of hatching SVB larvae. See SVB in the Pumpkin and Squash section for more information.

acetamiprid (Assail 30 SG): 5.3 dry oz/A (7 dh, REI 12h, Group 4). Most effective on newly laid eggs and nymphs. Toxic to bees exposed to direct treatment; do not apply while bees are active.

azadirachtin (Neemix 4.5): 7 to 16 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 18). Foliar application to young squash bug nymphs. OMRI listed.

bifenthrin (Capture* 2EC): 2.6 to 6.4 oz/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 qt/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 1A). For squash bug only. Highly toxic to bees; avoid use during bloom when bees are active. May encourage buildup of aphids by killing natural enemies. Do not apply when foliage is wet. Time sprays for early morning or late afternoon. Repeated application may cause plant injury.

endosulfan (Thionex* 50W): 1 to 2 lb/A (2 dh, REI 24h, Group 2A).

esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior*): 2.5 to 3.8 oz/A (1 dh, REI 24h, Group 3A).

permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A). Use high rate for squash bugs.

pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide (Pyrenone): 1 tsp/gal, or 1 to12 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 3 to 4.3 oz/A (1 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).  

Whiteflies

See whiteflies in the tomato section for more information.

buprofezin (Courier 40SC): 9 to 13.6 oz/A (7 dh, REI 12h, Group 16). Insect growth regulator; target nymph stages. Allow at least 7 days between applications.

dinotefuran (Safari 20SG): 0.16 to 0.32 dry oz/1,000 sq ft or 3.5 to 7 dry oz/100 gal/20,000 sq ft (1 dh, REI 12h, Group 4). Cucumber and melon transplants while in greenhouse. Not for field use.

dinotefuran (Venom 20SG): 7 to 14 dry oz/A foliar or 18 to 21 dry oz/A soil (1 dh foliar, 21 dh soil, REI 12h, Group 4A). For resistance management purposes, do not use foliar spray after soil application or following another nicotinoid (Group 4A) insecticide application on the same crop. Highly toxic to bees, avoid foliar application during bloom. 

flonicamid (Beleaf 50SG): 2.8 dry oz/A (0 dh, REI 12, Group 9C). Suppression only.

lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior*): 3.8 oz/A (1 dh, REI 24h, Group 3A). Suppression only.

pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0): 4.5 to 18 oz/A (0dh,REI 12h, Group 3A). OMRI listed. May be used in greenhouse or field.

pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide (Pyrenone): 1 tsp/gal, or 1 to12 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A). May be used in greenhouse or field.

pyriproxyfen (Knack): 8 to 10 oz/A (7 dh, REI 12h, Group 7). Insect growth regulator for long-term control of immature whiteflies. Does not control adults. No more than 2 applications per season, at least 14 days apart.

sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 50 oz/100 gal (0.5 dh, REI 12h, Group 25). Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper, sulfur or oils. CT only.

spiromesifen (Oberon 2SC): 7 to 8.5 oz/A (7 dh, REI 12h, Group 23). Immature whiteflies only.

thiamethoxam (Actara): 3 to 5.5 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 4). Highly toxic to bees exposed to direct treatment or residues on blooming crops. Do not apply or allow to drift to blooming crops or weeds. Wait at least 5 days before placing beehives in or near the treated field.

thiamethoxam (Platinum): 5 to 11 oz/A (30 dh, REI 12h, Group 4). Systemic insecticide used as an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone during or after planting/transplanting operations. DO NOT apply as a foliar spray.

Disease Control

NOTE:  For the products for disease control listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (common name) as an example of rates, days to harvest (dh), REI, and special instructions. In many cases there are other products available with the same active ingredient. Please see Table 22 and Alphabetical Listing by Trade Name for more information on products with the same active ingredients.

Angular Leaf Spot (Pseudomonas syringae pv. lachrymans)

Avoid working in the fields when the foliage is wet. Plow crop residue under promply after harvest to aid decomposition. Rotate out of cucurbits for two years. Plant resistant varieties when possible. Use pathogen-free seed or hot-water treat the seed to kill the bacterium in the seed. Sprays may not be effective if applied too late or if environmental conditions are conducive to spread of the disease.

basic copper sulfate (Basic Copper 50W HB):  0.5-1.25  lb/A (0 dh, REI 48h, Group M1). Apply when disease first appears and reapply at 5-10 day intervals. Use higher rates when conditions favor disease. Applications at higher rates and shorter intervals may result in crop injury. Do not apply in a spray solution having a pH less than 6.5.

copper hydroxide (Kocide 3000): 1.3 pt/A (0 dh, REI 24h, Group M1). Apply when disease first appears and reapply at five to seven-day intervals. Use higher rates when conditions favor disease. Applications at higher rates and shorter intervals may result in crop injury. Do not apply in a spray solution having a pH less than 6.5. or tank mix with Aliette.

Anthracnose (Colletotrichum), Alternaria Leaf Spot, and Black Rot (Didymella)

Plant only certified disease-free seed. Rotate out of cucurbits for at least two years. Control all weeds, especially volunteer cucurbits. Collect and burn or plow down deeply all infected crop debris after harvest. Grow cultivars with resistance if available. Avoid wounding fruit during harvesting. Immerse fruit in clean and fresh water containing 120 ppm chlorine. Chemical control can be obtained through a regular spray program of eradicant or protective fungicides. Coverage of leaf undersides and fruit is crucial to success.

azoxystrobin (Quadris): 11 to 15.5 oz/A (1 dh, REI 4h, Group 11). Apply when disease first occurs. Alternate with another appropriate fungicide after 7-14 days.

chlorothalonil (Bravo Ultrex): 1.8 to 2.7 lb/A. Apply when disease first appears. Repeat at 7- to 10-day intervals (0 dh, REI 12h, Group M5). Bravo Ultrex can cause injury to watermelon fruit; see label.

maneb/mancozeb (Maneb, Penncozeb, Manzate): Rates vary depending on the formulation. See Table 23. (5 dh, REI 24h, Group M3).

pyraclostrobin plus boscalid (Pristine): 12.5-18.0 oz/A. (0dh, REI 12h, Groups 11 &7). Do not make more than one application of Pristine before alternating with a non-Group 11 fungicide.

thiophanate methyl (Topsin M 70WP): For anthracnose and black rot only, 0.5 lb/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 1). Begin applications at the first sign of disease and repeat at seven- to 14-day intervals. The repeated exclusive use of Topsin M may lead to buildup of resistant strains of fungi and loss of disease control.

Bacterial Wilt (Erwinia trachephila)

Because this bacterium is transmitted systemically, copper sprays are of no value. Cucumber beetles must be controlled by appropriate insecticide programs. Scout twice weekly at seedling stage for cucumber beetles. Treat when beetle numbers reach the threshold of 1 beetle per 100 feet of row. Use crop rotation to reduce beetle numbers. Rogue infected plants. Spunbonded row covers will exclude beetles. Plant a sprayed perimeter trap crop of Blue Hubbard squash to protect more susceptible crops. Resistant cultivars of cucumber are being developed. No resistance has been identified in melon. Bait formulations consisting of attractants, feeding stimulants, and insecticide are being developed and tested.

Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV)

Many different strains of this virus occur and the host range includes plants in more than 31 different families. Many weed species also serve as hosts and the virus is seed-borne in chickweed. The virus is spread by more than 40 species of aphids and two beetles. Seed transmission is possible but unlikely in commercial cucumber seed. The abundance of other host plants and their proximity to crops and the presence of vectors govern the incidence and severity of disease. The use of resistant varieties is the most effective means of control. Reduce weeds, especially chickweed, pokeweed and milkweed, as much as practical. Practice rotation and plant away from previously contaminated fields. Insecticides are not very effective.

Downy Mildew (Pseudoperonospora cubensis)

Pseudoperonospora cubensis infects only members of the cucurbit family and is an obligate parasite. Its survival depends on the presence of cucurbit hosts, either in climates which permit their growth year round or in greenhouse culture. The source of primary inoculum in cold climates is windblown sporangia from areas where plants survive the cold season. Generally, downy mildew of cucurbits does not arrive in southern New England until September. However, in some seasons it can move up the eastern seaboard early and arrive in July. The progress of downy mildew is tracked by the North American Plant Disease Forecast Center and warnings issued based on disease progression and weather (www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/pp/cucurbit/). Physiological specialization occurs in P. cubensis and at least five pathotypes have been described. Cucumber and melon are susceptible to all pathotypes, while squash and melon cultivars vary in their reactions. Spread of downy mildew within a field can be by air currents, rain splash, workers, and tools. The main means of control are fungicide applications, the use of resistant cultivars, and cultural practices. Maximum control can be achieved only with a combination of these measures. Maximize the distance from potential inoculum sources. Use plant spacings which reduce the density of the plant canopy. Avoid overhead irrigation. Both these practices are aimed at minimizing the length of leaf wetness periods. Many commercial cultivars of cucumber have good levels of resistance to downy mildew. Watermelon and melon cultivars are available with low levels of resistance. Squash and pumpkin cultivars are resistant to some pathotypes but are very susceptible to compatible pathotypes.

azoxystrobin (Quadris): 11 to 15.5 fl oz/A (1 dh, REI 4h, Group 11). Apply when disease first occurs. Alternate with another fungicide other than Cabrio after 5-7 days.

cyazofamid (Ranman): 2.1-2.75 fl oz/A. ( 0 dh, REI 12 h, Group 21). Make initial application when conditions favor disease development. Alternate sprays of Ranman with a fungicide with a different mode of action.

cymoxanil (Curzate 60 DF): 3.2-5.0 oz/A. ( 3 dh, REI 12 h, Group 27). Use only in combination of a labeled rate of a protectant fungicide (copper, chlorothalonil, maneb). Apply as a protectant on a 5-7 day schedule.

dimethomorph (Forum): 6 oz/A. (0 dh, REI 12 h, Group 15). Apply only in combination with a labeled rate of another non-group 15 fungicide. Do not make more than two sequential applications of Forum before alternating to a fungicide with a different mode of action.

famoxadone plus cymoxanil (Tanos): 8 oz/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 27). Application should begin prior to disease development on a 5-7 day schedule. Tank mix with an appropriate contact fungicide with a different mode of action (Chlorothalonil, Copper, or Maneb).

fenamidone (Reason 500 SC): 5.5 fl oz/A. (14 dh, REI 12h, Group 11). Do not rotate with other Group 11 fungicides such as Quadris, Cabrio, or Headline.

fluopicolide (Presidio): 3-4 fl oz/A. (2 dh, REI 12h, Group 43). A tank mix with another labeled fungicide with a different mode of action (FRAC #) must be used for resistance management.

fosetyl AL (Aliette WDG): 2 to 5 lb/A (0 dh, REI 12 h, Group 33). Apply when conditions for disease are favorable. Use the high rate when Phytophthora blight is active. Apply every 7 to 14 days.

mancozeb plus zoxamide (Gavel 75DF): 1.5 to 2.0 lb/A (5 dh, REI 48h, Groups M3 & 22). Apply preventively to control downy mildew. Do not tank mix with other fungicides if the target pest is only downy mildew.

mandipropamid (Revus): 8.0 fl oz/A. (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 40). For suppression, begin applications prior to disease development. Revus must be tank mixed with another labeled fungicide with a different mode of action. A spreading/penetrating adjuvant is required.

mefenoxam plus chlorothalonil (Ridomil Gold/Bravo): 2 lb/A (7 dh, REI 48h, Groups 4 & M5). Apply when conditions are favorable for disease or as soon as disease first appears. Repeat at 14-day intervals. Avoid late season applications when plants reach full maturity and begin senescence. Do not plant any crop which is not registered for use with Ridomil Gold active ingredient in treated soil for a period of 12 months.

potassium salts of phosphorous acid (ProPhyt, Agri-Fos, Fosphite): Rates vary with formulation. (0 dh, REI 4h, Group 33). Apply at 2-3 week intervals prior to disease development. Do not apply to plants that are heat or moisture stressed. Copper phytotoxicity may occur if applied in alteration with copper.

propamocarb hydrochloride (Previcur Flex): 1.2 pt/A. (2 dh, REI 12h, Group 28). Begin applications when conditions are favorable for disease. Alternate with a contact fungicide (Chlorthalonil, copper, or maneb).

pyraclostrobin (Cabrio EG): 8 to 12 oz/A. (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 11). Apply at the first sign of disease and alternate with chlorothalonil after 7 to 14 days if necessary. Apply only three applications per season or 48 oz/A. Do not rotate with other strobilurins such as Quadris, Reason, or Pristine.

pyraclostrobin plus boscalid (Pristine): 12.5 -18.5 oz/A. (0 dh, REI 12h, Groups 11 plus 7). Do not make more than one application of Pristine before alternating to another non-strobilurin (Group 11) fungicide.

Phytophthora Blight and Fruit Rot

Phytophthora capsici cannot be managed by fungicide applications alone; successful disease control is achieved only by a season-long effort to manage water and other cultural practices. The single most effective way to control this disease is to prevent its movement into clean fields by equipment, humans, or infested water. Plant susceptible crops (tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and all cucurbit species) in fields that have no history of this disease and are well-drained. Plant non-vining crops on raised beds, avoid planting in low areas where water puddles, and improve drainage by sub-soiling after heavy rain events. Promptly disk under small areas where the disease appears along with a border of healthy appearing plants. Avoid working in wet fields and compacting the soil.

cyazofamid (Ranman): 2.75 fl oz/A. (0 dh, REI  12h, Group 21). Addition of a surfactant improves effectiveness when disease pressure is severe. Alternate sprays of Ranman with a fungicide with a different mode of action. Observe a 30 day plant back interval for crops not on label.

dimethomorph (Forum): 6 oz/A. (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 15). Apply only in combination with a labeled rate of another non-group 15 fungicide. Do not make more than two sequential applications of Forum before alternating to a fungicide with a different mode of action.

famoxadone plus cymoxanil (Tanos ): 8-10 oz/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 27). Application should begin prior to disease development on a 5-7 day schedule.  Foliar or fruit phase ONLY. Tank mix with an appropriate contact fungicide with a different mode of action (Chlorothalonil, copper or Maneb). Do not alternate with other Group 11 fungicides.

fluopicolide (Presidio): 3-4 fl oz/A. (2 dh, REI 12h, Group 43). A tank mix with another labeled fungicide with a different mode of action is required.

fosetyl Al (Aliette WDG): 2 to 5 lb/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 33). Apply when conditions for disease are favorable. Use the high rate when Phytophthora blight is active. Apply every 7 to 14 days.

mandipropamid (Revus):  8.0 fl oz/A. (0 dh, REI 12h, group 40). For suppression apply at planting or transplant. Apply in a mixture with a copper based fungicide. Alternate with another fungicide with a different mode of action.

mefenoxam (Apron XL LS): 0.085-0.64 fl oz/100 lb seed. (REI 48 h, Group 4). Use Apron seed treatment for direct seeding only and not for plants intended for transplanting.

Powdery Mildew (Erysiphe cichoracearum)

Fungicides for powdery mildew should be applied at the first sign of disease. For cucurbits, this is often as late as August but scouting should begin in July. On cucurbits, powdery mildew fungi attack both the top and bottom of the leaf, and this makes the disease more difficult to control with non-systemic fungicides. However, powdery mildew fungi tend to become resistant to systemic fungicides such as Topsin M, Nova, Cabrio, Flint and Quadris. Flint, Cabrio, and Quadris are strobilurins and are no longer recommended in New York and the mid-atlantic states due to rapid resistance development. Plant resistant cultivars where available.

chlorothalonil (Bravo Ultrex): 1.8 to 2.7 lb/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group M5). Powdery mildew will not become resistant to Bravo Ultrex but it is not systemic so coverage is critical.

copper hydroxide (Kocide 3000): 0.5- 1.25 lb/A. (0 dh, REI 24h, Group M1). Apply on a 5- to 7-day interval as soon as disease appears. Crop injury may ocur at higher rates and shorter intervals. Do not apply in a spray solution having a pH less than 6.5 or tank mix with Aliette.

myclobutanil (Rally): 5.0 oz/A. (0 dh, REI 24h, Group 3). Begin application at the first sign of disease and continue on a 7-10 day schedule. Rotate with another fungicide in 7-10 days.

pyraclostrobin (Cabrio EG): 12 to 16 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 11). Apply at the first sign of disease and alternate with chlorothalonil after 7 to 14 days if necessary. Apply only four applications per season or 64 oz/A. Do not rotate with other strobilurins such as Quadris or Flint.

pyraclostrobin plus boscalid (Pristine): 12.5 -18.5 oz/A. (0 dh, REI 12h, Groups 11 plus 7). Begin applications prior to the onset of disease and continue on a 7-14 day interval. Do not make more than one application of Pristine before alternating to a non-Group 11 fungicide. Do not alternate with Quadris, Flint, or Cabrio.

quinoxyfen (Quintec): 4-6 fl oz/A. (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 13).  Melon only. Quintec should be alternated with other effective fungicides at their recommended rates and spray intervals.

sulfur (Microthiol D): 2 to 4 lb/A (0 dh, REI 24h, Group M2). Apply when disease first appears and repeat as necessary. Do not use on sulfur sensitive melons See label precautions regarding air temperature and compatibility with oil sprays.

triflumizole (Procure 50WS): 8 oz/A. (0 dh, REI 12 h, Group 3). Alternate with a protectant fungicide (copper, chlorothalonil, maneb, sulfur). See label for rotational restrictions.

Watermelon Mosaic Virus (WMV) and Papaya Ringspot Virus (PRSV-W)

Several aphid species transmit these two viruses. PRSV-W is only known to occur in the cucurbit family but WMV-II has been reported from alfalfa, vetch, crimson clover, sour clover, snow-on-the-mountain and Malva parviflora. Seed transmission is considered a possibility but remains unproven.

Zucchini Yellow Mosaic Virus (ZYMV)

Zucchini Yellow Mosaic Virus was first discovered in the United States in the early 1980s. Two strains, Connecticut and Florida, are currently recognized. The Connecticut strain produces more severe symptoms than the Florida strain. The virus is transmitted in a nonpersistent manner by aphids. At this time, no weed hosts have been identified. Resistant varieties are not available.

Seed Decay

Buy treated seed. Do not use treated seed for food, feed or oil purposes.