Squash and pumpkins are frequently direct seeded, but for early markets it may be profitable to transplant, especially expensive hybrid seed. Bare ground and plasticulture systems can be either direct seeded or transplanted. Do not plant squash or pumpkin until daily soil temperatures are at least 60°F.

Transplants may be used to ensure uniform or complete stands, increase yield and to increase the likelihood of early harvest. Prior to transplanting, the plants can be hardened by placing them outside in a protected location.

Seed about two to three weeks before transplanting into the field. It is common to transplant into the field at the three- to four-leaf stage, but some growers get better survival by setting out younger plants (cotyledon to first true leaf stage). Transplants are quite subject to root injury and should be handled carefully with as little disturbance as possible. Those transplanted from the greenhouse before the frost-free date should be covered with hot caps or row covers or protected with irrigation (see Irrigation, page 18) to avoid freezing injury. Transplanted pumpkins and squash generally have reduced root systems commpared with direct-seeded plants. Transplants should be used only in irrigated fields.

Pumpkins can also be produced using a strip-till or no-till system. In such reduced-till systems, seeds are usually planted into the stubble of a killed cover crop or harvested small grain. Reduced-till systems provide erosion control, help retain soil moisture, improve soil structure, reduce weed and disease pressure, provide cleaner fruit at harvest and may facilitate planting and harvest operations during wet weather.

Pumpkin and squash require bee activity for good fruit set. Fruit set in winter squash and pumpkin takes place largely over a two to three week period, hence the importance of bees. Inadequate pollination results in poorly shaped fruit, as well as excessive blossom drop. One hive of bees per acre is recommended. If Euopean honey bees are not available, bumble bees are a reliable alternative and are commercially available. The practice of saving squash or pumpkin seed for planting the following year is not recommended. Since bees can carry pollen for a mile or more, isolation of fields from other types of squash or pumpkin is rarely possible in the New England area.

Several factors other than bees and pollination may affect fruit set. Pumpkins and squash have separate male and female flowers. The numbers of female flowers, which produce fruit, is adversely affected by prolonged periods of high temperatures of (7+ days above 90°F day and 70°F night), dry conditions just prior to and during bloom and excessive shading from the plant canopy. Sometimes low yields associated with lack of female flowers can be avoided or minimized by making several plantings over 2 to 3 weeks, planting several varieties, timely irrigation, avoiding excess nitrogen and spacing pumpkins farther apart to help reduce shading.

Gourds can be grown on the ground or can be trained to grow on a trellis, fence or arbor. For commercial production they should be grown in rows or hills like squash and pumpkins. Gourds can be grown in a wide range of soil types but mature earlier and color better on sandy soils or sandy loams that drain well and warm up early in the spring.

Gourd seeds can be purchased as a mix or can be ordered from some seed companies by type or form (warted, spoon, crown of thorns, etc.). Seeds can be saved to develop mixes but plants must be isolated from other cucurbits. Check days to maturity to be sure that growing season is long enough.

Varieties

Spacing and Seeding

Bush varieties should be planted 18” to 24” within rows and 4’ to 5’ between rows. Vining varieties should be planted 2’ to 6’ between hills (one to three plants/hill) and 6’ to 12’ between rows. Spacing will vary with cultivar and size of vine. Pumpkin fruit size is greatly influenced by spacing. The closer the spacing, the smaller the fruits, even on large-fruited types. Growers should experiment with both bush and vine types to determine the most desirable fruit size for a particular cultivar under the conditions of individual farms. Plant seed 3/4” to 11/4” deep, depending on soil texture and moisture. Sow enough seed to ensure a stand that may be thinned later. Mice especially like germinating seed. Some growers have seeded three times in the field before achieving the desired stand. Seed required is as follows: winter squash and pumpkins at 2 to 4 lb/A, and summer squash at 4 to 6 lb/A.

Lime

Apply lime according to soil test results to maintain soil pH at 6.5 to 6.8.

Fertilizer

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

If growing plants on plastic mulch, the amount of nitrogen fertilizer to be sidedressed can be reduced, since leaching is minimized. Nitrogen can be applied through trickle (see page 17) or overhead irrigation or sidedressed along the edge of the plastic mulch. Foliar feeding rate is four to five pounds of urea per acre.

Less nitrogen fertilizer will be needed if manure or legume sod was plowed down (see pages 6 to 9 for information on nitrogen credits).

Excess nitrogen encourages a dense foliar canopy which reduces the number of female flowers. The pre-sideress soil nitrate test (PSNT) can help avoid this. See page 8 for more information.

Harvest

Summer squash should be harvested as immature fruit approzimately 7 inches in length. This may require a one- to three-day picking interval. Care should be taken not to damage the tender skin. Fruit may be harvested by cutting the stem with a knife or by twisting it from the plant. Cutting with a knife can transmit virus. If virus is detected in the field, fruit should be harvested by twisting from the plant.

Winter squash and pumpkin are not normally harvested until the rind or skin is completely hardened. If necessary, pumpkins can be harvested if some color is present. If possible, pumpkins that have reached full color should be stored under cover to protect them from cumulative chilling injury from temperatures below 50°F (see storage) and from disease. Fruits are easily damaged by rough handling. Do not permit fruits to be exposed to 32°F or below as storage problems will be encountered.

Gourds should mature between late summer and the first fall frost. Harvest fruit when the stems become dry and the skin is hard. Discard any fruit which is bruised, cut, or showing symptoms of disease.

Wash gourds in warm, soapy water to remove any soil and reduce postharvest rots. Rinse fruit in clean water and dry ith a soft cloth. Spread the gourds out on several layers of newspaper in a warm, dry place, such as an attic, for final drying. This should take three to four weeks.

Dried gourds may be marketed in their natural state or treated with a protective, shiny coating. Gourds may be waxed with a paste-type wax and buffed with a soft cloth; or shellac may be applied by spraying, brushing, or dipping to give them a hard, glossy finish.

Storage

Summer squash can be damaged from three to four days exposure to temperatures of 32°F to 40°F and 90% or higher relative humidity. This is commonly referred to as “chilling injury.” If storage is required, hold at 45°F to 50°F and at 90% relative humidity for up to two weeks. Summer squash should be marketed as soon as possible.

Pumpkin can be stored in good condition for two to three months at 50°F to 55°F and 70 to 75% relative humidity.

Winter squash should be well matured for storage, and free from injury or decay. A 10- to 20-day curing period at 80°F to 85°F before storage is often recommended for squash showing any surface damage or with nonhardened skin, but is not consistently beneficial for squash showing no damage or that is well matured. All winter squash should be held between 55°F and 60°F. Research has demonstrated that disease is minimized at 60°F and at 50% to 75% relative humidity. Chilling injury occurs any time the temperatures fall below 55°F. This is cumulative. Injury increases as temperature decreases and/or length of chilling time increases. Such squash is likely to break down in storage. Chilling injury can occur in the field and in storage.

Hubbard and butternut squash can be kept six months or more, acorn five to eight weeks and buttercup two to three months or more. Squash should not be stored with ethylene producers such as ripe apples or pears since squash will turn color, become stringy and decay. It is important to keep squash dry and maintain good air circulation.

Weed Control

Gourds have recently been added to this section. Of herbicides listed below, only Roundup, Gramoxone Max, Scythe and Prefar are registered for use in gourds.

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. 

Stale Seedbed and No-Till

Based on work done in New York state, it may be possible to achieve good weed suppression by allowing winter rye to grow to 30”, killing it with glyphosate (Roundup), and then seeding the pumpkins or squash with a no-till planter. Remember that if weed suppression is not adequate, cultivation will be very difficult in the rye stubble.

See page 44 in Weed Information section. Prepare field 10 to 14 days prior to planting. Allow weeds to germinate. After seeding, but prior to crop emergence, apply paraquat (Gramoxone Inteon*2S) at 2.0 to 4.0 pt/A (REI 12h, Group 22). Add a nonionic surfactant at 8 to 32 oz/100 gal spray. Avoid contact between spray and crop cotyledons or foliage. Bensulide (Prefar 6E) may be incorporated at time of field preparation to provide some residual control of annual grasses. Gramoxone Inteon* is a contact herbicide and will control only those annual weeds that have emerged at the time of application.

glyphosate (Roundup 4S): 1 to 5 qt/A (REI 12h, Group 9). See Stale Seedbed Technique.

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

Preplant Incorporated/Preemergence

bensulide (Prefar 4E): 5 to 6 qt/A (REI 12h, Group 8). Must be thoroughly incorporated to a depth of 2” before planting. Use primarily where grasses are a serious problem. May be applied preemergence if 1” of rainfall or irrigation follows application.

clomazone (Command 3ME): 10 to 32 oz/A (REI 12h, Group 13). Do not exceed 20 ounces in summer squash. NOT LABELED FOR USE IN PUMPKINS. Apply after seeding or prior to transplanting. May also be applied to the soil surface between rows of plastic mulch. 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 or after transplanting. 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 the 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. Not registered on gourds.

ethafluralin + 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 cucurbits 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 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 2/3 oz/A (30 dh, REI 12h, Group 2). PUMPKINS and WINTER SQUASH ONLY. Apply after seeding and before crop emergence. 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. Consider using Sandea as a supplement to Strategy (ethalfluralin + clomazone) in cases where Strategy has not provided sufficient weed control and when a postemergence application is not practical.

s-metolachlor (Dual Magnum 7.62E) : 0.95-1.27 lb/A. (REI 12 hr, Group 15)  Apply 1 to 1.33 pints of Dual Magnum 7.62E per acre as a directed and shielded spray between the rows of plastic mulch or between bare ground rows in pumpkins to suppress or control annual grasses, yellow nutsdge, and certain annual broadleaf weeds including nightshade species.  Leave 1 foot (12 inches) of untreated area between the spray and any emerged pumpkin foliage. Do NOT apply Dual Magnum under the plastic or spray the plastic mulch.  Tank-mix with other herbicides to improve the number of annual broadleaf weeds controlled.  Dual Magnum will not control emerged weeds.  In CT, ME, and NH, can be tank-mixed with Gamoxone Inteon and applied as a directed shielded spray if weeds have emerged.  Use the lowest recommended rates on coarse-textured sandy soils low in organic matter.  Higher rates should only be used on medium and fine textured soils.  Dual magnum is labeled for use ONLY in pumpkins.  Dual Magnum is NOT labeled on winter squash.  Do NOT use Dual Magnum in winter squash.

Postemergence

carfentrazone (Aim 2EC or Aim 1.9EW):  0.008-0.031 lb/A.  (REI 12 hr, Group 14)  Apply 0.5 to 2 fluid ounces of Aim 2EC or Aim 1.9EW as a banded directed shielded spray between the rows of plastic mulch to suppress or control broadleaf weeds including morninglory species, pigweed species, common lambsquarter, and nightshade species when the crop has 2 to 5 true leaves but has not yet begun to bloom or run. Aim applied postemergence will not control annual or perennial grasses. Add nonionic surfactant to be 0.25 percent of the spray solution (1 quart per 100 gallons of spray solution), or oil concentrate or methylated seed oil to be 1 -2% percent of the spray solution (1-2 gallons per 100 gallons of spray solution).  The shielded (hooded) sprayer must be designed to prevent spray or drift from contacting the stems, leaves, flowers or fruit of the crop, or severe injury may occur.

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 2/3 oz/A (30 dh, REI 12h, Group 2). PUMPKINS and WINTER SQUASH 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. 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.

halosulfuron (Sandea 75 WSG): 1/2 to 1 oz/A (30 dh, REI 12h, Group 2). Winter squash, summer squash, and pumpkins. Apply between rows of direct seeded and transplanted cucurbit vegetables for control of nutsedge and many broadleaf weeds. Will provide both preemergence and post-emergence 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.

paraquat (Gramoxone Ineon* 2S): 2 pt/A (REI 12h, Group 22). Apply as a directed and shielded spray to emerged weeds between rows of pumpkin or squash. 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 1.5L): 1 to 2 pt/A (14 dh, REI 12h, Group 1). Apply with crop oil concentration 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 and some foliar necrosis may result. Not registered on gourds.

Insect Control 

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, neonicotinoids and carbamates are highly toxic to honey bees. Maintain a spray row.

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.

Aphids

Aphids found in cucurbits include green peach aphid and melon aphid. See Cucumber section for more information on melon aphid and Pepper section for more information about green peach aphid.

Scout by inspecting the underside of 50 fully grown leaves at 10 sites per field. Treatment is needed only if 20% of leaves have 5 or more aphids per leaf. Pumpkin, gourd and squash varieties differ in attractiveness to aphids. Spot treatment to susceptible varieties may be appropriate. Use selective products to conserve beneficials that supress aphids. During bloom, avoid products that are toxic to bees, or treat only at night.

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 deterrent. OMRI listed.

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

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 4A). Squash transplants while in greenhouse. Not for field use. Squash only.

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. Note: Provado IS NOT registered for use on cucurbits. See rotational restrictions.

insecticidal soap (M-Pede): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water (0 dh, REI 12h). Spray to wet all infested plant surfaces. Repeated applications may be necessary. Apply with a companion aphicide. OMRI listed.

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

malathion (Malathion 57EC): 1 1/2 pt/A (1 dh squash, 3 dh pumpkin, REI 12h, Group 1B).

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 summer squash and other "soft" squash that is harvested when immature only. For melon aphid. 

oxydemeton-methyl (MSR*): 1 1/2 to 2 pt/A (3 dh for summer squash, 14 dh for pumpkin and winter squash, REI 14d, Group 1B). DO NOT apply more than once per season. Highly toxic; handle with care.

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.

pymetrozine (Fulfill): 2.75 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 9A). Selective control of aphids including melon and green peach aphid. Translaminar. Apply before populations build up. 

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 (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

See Cucumber, muskmelon and watermelon for more information on cucumber beetle life cycle and cultural management. Manage cucumber beetle to prevent losses from bacterial wilt as well as from direct feeding damage. In recent years we have seen increasing incidence of bacterial wilt in squash and pumpkins. The most susceptible period is from crop emergence to the four true leaf stage. Scout at least 25 plants to monitor the number of beetles and damage. An action threshold of one per plant has been used with success in crops that have low susceptibility to wilt and rapid early growth, including butternut and pumpkin. At later growth stages, the crop should be treated if there is extensive damage to fruit. Where possible, avoid insecticide applications during flowering to protect bees; if sprays are needed, treat at night and use products that have low impact on bees. If multiple treatments are needed, rotate to a product with a different mode of action (different group number).

Perimeter trap cropping: plant Blue Hubbard or buttercup squash or another Cucurbita maixima variety in one or two rows to create an unbroken perimeter around the field (always use two rows near woods or last year’s fields). These crops will concentrate beetles in the border because they are generally more attractive to beetles than winter squash and pumpkin, which are Cucurbita moschata or Cucurbita pepo types. Beetles should be killed in the border, either by applying foliar insecticide when beetles first arrive or using a systemic insecticide at planting. This can reduce or eliminate the need for controls in the main crop. Repeat perimeter-sprays as needed. Perimeter trap cropping may be more effective for squash than for pumpkins. Note that many giant pumpkin varieties are Cucurbita maxima. Do not use a crop that is highly susceptible to bacterial wilt in the border.

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* 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). 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).

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 summer squash and other "soft" squash that is harvested when immature only.

oxydemeton-methyl (MSR*): 1 1/2 to 2 pt/A (3 dh for summer squash, 14 dh for pumpkin and winter squash, REI 14d, Group 1B). DO NOT apply more than once per season. Highly toxic; handle with care.

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 (Platinum): 5 to 11 oz/A (30 dh, REI 12h, Group 4). CT and MA only. 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).  

Cutworms

Caterpillars hide under the soil surface adjacent to the plant stem during the day and feed after dark. Larvae may occasionally cut stems of seedlings. Spot spray heavily damaged sections of the field. For best results, make application between midnight and dawn while cutworms are feeding aboveground. 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): 2.6 to 6.4 oz/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A).

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

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).

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. Pumpkins and squash 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). For summer squash and other "soft" squash that is harvested when immature only.

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 (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.

Seed Maggot

Soils that are high in decaying manure or vegetable matter, especially in cool, wet springs, attract egg-laying female flies. No insecticides are currently registered.

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 (AgriMek* 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* 2EC): 5.1 to 6.4 oz/A (3 dh, REI 24h, 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).

neem oil (Trilogy): 0.5 to 2% solution in 25 to 100 gal water/A or 2 pt/A low volume (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.

Squash Beetle

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).

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

Squash Bug and Squash Vine Borer

Squash bug adults are grayish-brown, hard, flat-backed insects, 1/2 to 3/4” long, with long legs and antennae. Adults often hide around the base of the plant or under plastic mulch and are hard to target with sprays. Eggs are shiny, smooth, reddish-brown and seed-shaped and are usually deposited on the leaves in an organized, neatly-spaced pattern, in groups of 10 to 20. The soft-bodied nymphs are grey with dark-brown or black heads, antennae and legs. They survive the winter in natural and artificially-sheltered sites along field margins or under plant debris within fields. Both adults and nymphs have needle-like mouthparts that they use to extract plant juices. The plant vascular system may become clogged, causing the plant to wilt, darken and die. They may also spread cucurbit yellow vine (CYV), a common Southwestern bacterial disease that has been found in a few isolated places in CT and MA.

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 as far apart as possible. 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 when the flowers are closed 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. Certain winter squash (Hubbard or marrow) are favored by bugs over other cucurbits. Adults colonizing the field in the spring can be controlled by planting a perimeter trap crop (Hubbard or marrow) 1 or 2 weeks before the main crop, and treating the trap crop just prior to main crop emergence or prior to transplanting, and 5 to 10 days later.

Squash vine borers (SVB) are day-flying moths, with bright orange markings on their backs and legs. They resemble wasps. Most eggs are laid on the stem within a foot of the soil. Hatching larvae tunnel into the stem and, if plentiful, cause wilting, reduce squash yields or even sever the stem from the roots. In rare cases when populations are very high, larvae may bore into fruit. The large cream-colored larvae are 1 to 1 1/2” long and 3/8” wide. The pupae survives the winter 1 or 2” deep in the soil. Spring or fall plowing buries pupae deep in the soil and reduces populations. Preferred hosts have thick stems, while thin stemmed squash tend to be more resistant to attack. Yields of summer squash can be reduced by 1/3 if infestations exceed 5 larvae per plant. Pumpkins can sustain high infestations without yield reductions. Butternut squash are resistant to SVB. Monitor with a Scentry Heliothis pheromone trap from early June through early August. Make 2 to 4 weekly applications if more than 5 moths per week are captured. Timing is very important. Treat base of stems thoroughly to target hatching larvae. Some selective materials, such as spinosad (SpinTor or Entrust), provide excellent control of hatching SVB larvae.

acetamiprid (Assail 30 SG): 2.5 to 4 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). Insect growth regulator for small 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). Toxic to bees. Only for squash bug. Observe plant response precautions. Do not apply to wet plants. Bugs may be resistant.

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 bug.

pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide (Pyrenone): 1 tsp/gal, or 1 to 12 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3A). Use three- to four-day intervals for SVB.

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

Slugs

Damage appears as shredded foliage or fruit holes. Look for silvery slime trails on leaves or turn over soil clods or debris to find slugs during daylight hours. Grow plants away from moist, shaded habitats, use clean cultivation, control weeds, hand pick/crush slugs or scatter baits on the ground near infested plants. See the Cabbage section for more information on slugs.

iron phosphate (Sluggo: Snail and Slug Bait): 20 to 44 lb/A (0 dh, REI 0h, Group 9B). Apply around perimeter, scatter around base of plants, or band down rows. Apply to moist soil in the evening. OMRI listed.

metaldehyde (Deadline Bullets): 20 to 40 lb/A (REI 12h). Soil surface treatment or band treatment between rows after formation of edible parts. Do not apply directly to or contaminate edible portions of plants.

Whiteflies

See the whiteflies in the tomato section for more information.

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.

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.  Limited to two applications per crop.

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). Squash transplants while in greenhouse. Not for field use. Squash only. 

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 (0 dh, 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 (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.

Powdery Mildew

Fungicides 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. Cabrio, Flint and Quadris are strobilurins and have the same mode of action so they should not be rotated with each other. Resistance to strobilurins in New York and Mid-Atlantic states has resulted in the removal of this class of fungicides from their recommendations, with the exception of Pristine which is a combination product. Resistance to the DMI fungicides (Rally, Procure) is also widespread; use Rally or Procure at the high labeled rate only.

chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 2.0-3.0 pt/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group M5). Powdery mildew will not become resistant to Bravo but it is not systemic so coverage is critical.

myclobutanil (Rally):  5 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 3). Begin application at the first sign of disease development and alternate with a fungicide with a different mode of action. Observe a 30-day plant back interval.

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. Do not make more than one application before alternating with a non-Group 11 fungicide. 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). Use caution when applying Pristine in a tank mix (see label). Do not rotate with other Group 11 fungicides such as Quadris, Cabrio, or Flint.

quinoxyfen (Quintec): 4-6 fl oz/A. (10-14 dh, REI 12h, Group 13). Tank mix with a protectant fungicide. Alternate with a non-Group 13 fungicide. 

sulfur (Microthiol D): 5-10 lb/A. (0 dh, REI 24h, Group M2). Sulfur can injure plants, especially when temperatures reach 90° F. Do not apply to sulfur sensitive varieties.

triflumizole (Procure 50WS): 8 oz/A. (0 dh, REI 12 h, Group 3).See label for restrictions on rotational crops.

Plectosporium Blight (Plectosporium tabacinum)

When Plectosporium blight occurs, rotate away from summer squash and pumpkins for two years. Choose sunny, well drained sites for planting cucurbits. Scout for disease and apply fungicides when disease first occurs. Thorough coverage of foliage, vines, and fruit is necessary for good control. The Strobilurin (QoI) fungicides Flint (trifloxystrobin), Cabri (pyraclostrobin), and Quadris (azoxystrobin) will control this disease but should not be rotated with each other or the pathogen will develop resistance. Apply a protectant fungicide such as chlorothalonil (Bravo) or maneb (Maneb) following a strobilurin.

azoxystrobin (Quadris): 11.0 to 15.5 fl oz/A (1 dh, REI 4h, Group 11). Apply at the first sign of disease and repeat with a fungicide other than a strobilurin in 7 to 14 days. Do not rotate with other Group 11 fungicides such as Cabrio or Flint.

chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 1.5-2.0 pt/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group M5).

maneb (Maneb): Rates vary depending on the formulation. See label and Table 22 (5 dh, REI 24h, Group M3).

pyraclostrobin (Cabrio): 12 to 16 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 11). Apply at the first sign of disease and repeat with a fungicide other than a strobilurin in 7 to 14 days. Do not rotate with other Group 11 fungicides such as Quadris or Flint.

trifloxystrobin (Flint): 1.5 -2.0 oz/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 11). Apply at the first sign of disease and repeat with a fungicide other than a strobilurin in 7 to 14 days. Do not rotate with other Group 11 fungicides such as Quadris or Cabrio.

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. Squash and pumpkin cultivars are resistant to some pathotypes but are very susceptible to compatible pathotypes.

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

chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 1.5-2.0 pt/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group M5).

cyazofamid (Ranman): 2.1-2.75 fl oz/A. (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 21). 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 12h, Group 27). Use only in combination of a labeled rate of a protectant fungicide (copper, chlorothalonil).

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 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, REI12h, Group 43). Must be tank mixed with another fungicide with a different mode of action.

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. Do not tank mix with copper.

mefenoxam plus chlorothalonil (Ridomil Gold/Bravo WP): 2 lb/A (2 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 beginning of disease. Do not apply to plants that are heat or moisture stressed. Copper phytotoxicity may occur if applied in alteration with copper.

propamocarb HCl (Previcur Flex): 1.2 pt/A. (2 dh, REI 12 h, Group 28). Alternate with a contact fungicide (copper, chlorothalonil, maneb, sulfur).

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.Do not make more than one application before alternating with a non-Group 11 fungicide. Do not rotate with other strobilurins such as Quadris.

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.

Anthracnose (Colletotrichum), Scab (Cladosporium) and Black Rot (Didymella)

Black rot is one of the most destructive diseases of winter squash and pumpkins. Do not plant winter squash or pumpkins for at least two years in fields where these diseases have been a problem. Plow under plant debris after harvest. Reduce weeds to allow for faster drying of plant surfaces. Start with certified disease-free seed. Carefully scout transplant greenhouse for diseased plants and remove them, improve ventilation in greenhouse, and reduce overhead irrigation. Avoid injuring fruit before or during harvest. Cultivars with resistance to Anthracnose are available. Apply protectant fungicides accrding to a disease forecasting system (Melcast). Scab is primarily a problem on summer squash and pumpkins. Cultivars of cucumber with resistance to Scab are available. Where Scab has been a problem, plant in sunny locations where cool air does not tend to accumulate.

azoxystrobin (Quadris): 11.0-15.5 fl oz/A. (1 dh, REI 4h, Group 11). Do not alternate with other Group 11 fungicides. Resistant isolates of Black Rot (Didymella) have been reported.

chlorothalonil (BravoWeather Stik): 1.5 to 2.0 pt/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group M5). Apply when disease first appears. Repeat at 7- to 10-day intervals. Bravo can cause injury to watermelon fruit; see label.

maneb (Maneb): Rates vary depending on the formulation. See Table 23, page 55 (5 dh, REI 24h, Group M3).

pyraclostrobin (Cabrio EG): 12-16 oz/A. (0 dh, REI12h, Group 11). Do not make more than one application of Cabrio before alternating to a labeled fungicide with a different mode of action.

pyraclostrobin plus boscalid (Pristine): 12.5-18.5 oz/A. (0 dh, REI 12h, Groups 11 plus 7). Use caution in the addition of adjuvants or additives (see label).

thiophanate-methyl (Topsin-M 70W):  0.5 lb/A (0 dh, REI 12h, Group 1). Begin applications at the first sign of disease and repeat at 7- 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.

Angular leaf spotm(Pseudomonas lachrymans)

Angular leaf spot is not usually a serious disease in New England. Plow under crop residue after harvest. Rotate away from cucurbits for at least one year.

Combine basic copper sulfate (Basic Copper 50 W HB):  0.5-2 lb/A (2 dh, REI 48h, Group M1) or cupric hydroxide (Kocide 3000): 0.5-2.0 lb/A (0 dh, REI 24h, Group M1) with maneb (Manex): 1-1.2 qt/A (7 dh, REI 24h, Group M3).

Bacterial Wilt (Erwinia tracheiphila)

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. Bait formulations consisting of attractants, feeding stimulants, and insecticide are being developed and tested.

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). Mix with a surfactant for best results. Alternate sprays of Ranman with a fungicide with a different mode of action.

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 oz/A (3 dh, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 27). For supression of foliar and fruit phase only. 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 (Copper, chlorothalonil, or Maneb).

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.

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

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

Post-Harvest Fruit Rot (Various Fungi)

Fruit and stem rot that develops after harvest is generally due to infection that took place in the field. Postharvest rot can be reduced by applying fungicides during the growing season on a regular basis, as for control of black rot. Control weeds to allow better air circulation. Wounds to the fruit that occur during harvest can also result in postharvest rot. For maximum storage life, refer to the Storage section on page 158.

Cucurbit Viruses: CMV, WMV-II, PRSV-W and ZYMV

Refer to the discussion of these viruses in the section in Cucumber, Muskmelon and Watermelon.