Insect Management for Cucurbits (Cucumber, Squash, Cantaloupe, and Watermelon)
S. E. WebbInsects and mites can cause severe problems in the production of watermelon, squash, cucumber, and cantaloupe either through direct damage to the crop or through transmission of disease agents, such as the aphid-borne mosaic viruses. Common pests of cucurbits are described below. The importance of a particular insect will vary by region and by crop. For example root maggots are more important in North Florida and melon thrips in South Florida. Pickleworm and melonworm rarely attack watermelon.
For each pest described, a table of management options will be found after the damage. These tables will be expanded as more information becomes available. Tables 11 - 14, at the end of this publication, list pesticides labeled for each major cucurbit grown in Florida: cucumber, squash, cantaloupe, and watermelon. Pesticides for controlling insects not described below can be found by looking under the "Insects" column in the tables.
Beneficial Insects
Bees are essential for cucurbit production. It has been estimated that eight or more visits per blossom are necessary for optimum fruit set and normal fruit development in watermelon. The morning hours are most critical for pollination, but bees will continue to forage into the afternoon, so during bloom, application of insecticides harmful to bees should be done in the evening. Biological and cultural controls should be used as much as possible to preserve, not only bees, but also other beneficial insects. Some of the predators and parasites important in the management of insect and mite pests are mentioned in the following sections.
Melon Aphid, Aphis gossypii Glover
Description
Melon aphids are soft-bodied insects, almost egg-shaped when viewed from above ( Figure 1 ). The largest ones are not much longer than one-sixteenth of an inch in length. Their color can vary from pale yellow to dark green to almost black. A pair of small tube-like structures called cornicles extends backward and upward from the posterior of the aphid, above a small tail-like structure (cauda). The first individuals to colonize a plant will usually have wings, but then wingless aphids become the dominant form until crowding occurs or the plant deteriorates. Then winged aphids will be produced again to disperse to other plants.
Figure 1. Wingless melon aphid.
Biology
Melon aphids reproduce very rapidly. Average temperatures of 78 to 80° F are highly favorable for aphid development. They feed by inserting their long, piercing-sucking mouthparts into the plant's vascular system and sucking out the plant sap. In doing so, they excrete large amounts of sugary, sticky honeydew. Honeydew is a source of food for a black fungus known as sooty mold and for ants. The ants will actually protect the aphids from attack by other insects and may move them to other leaves.
Damage
On watermelon and cantaloupe, the first sign of aphid damage is a downward curling and crumpling of the leaves, which also appear thickened and may glisten with sticky honeydew. On squash, aphids are often found on lower leaves and on flower buds and flowers. If plants are heavily attacked when very young they may be killed. This aphid is also involved in the spread of several viruses that affect all cucurbits.
Silverleaf Whitefly
Description
The adult silverleaf whitefly is small, less than 1/16 of an inch in length, and has powdery white wings held tent-like over a yellow body while at rest ( Figure 2 ). Adult females lay pointed oblong yellow eggs that darken at the tip just before hatching. A mobile first instar or crawler stage settles on the leaf and develops through sessile second, third, and fourth instars, which look like semi-transparent, flat, oval scales. Later instars, more yellow and more easily seen without the aid of a hand lens, typically have very distinct eyespots and are referred to as "red-eyed nymphs."
Figure 2. Silverleaf whitefly adult.
Biology
The life cycle from egg to adult can be as short as two weeks under very warm temperatures. Eggs and early immature stages of whitefly generally occur on the underside of younger leaves. Whitefly adults also concentrate on younger leaves where they lay the most eggs. Larger nymphs are typically more numerous on older leaves. Whiteflies feed in the plant vascular system (phloem) through a stylet similar to that of aphids and, like aphids, process a relatively large volume of plant sap by excreting excess liquid in the form of honeydew.
Damage
Silverleaf whitefly can affect the crop directly by its feeding and by acting as a vector of viruses such as squash leaf curl virus and cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus, which have not yet been reported in Florida. When whiteflies are very numerous, the sticky honeydew they produce supports the growth of sooty mold on leaves. Squash and pumpkin are susceptible to silverleaf, a disorder caused by feeding of immature stages. For unknown reasons, epidermal cells separate from the cells below them, leaving air spaces, which make the leaves appear silver. New growth will be normal once whiteflies are controlled.
Rindworm Complex
Description and Biology
Any caterpillar (larval stage of moth) that feeds on the surface of watermelon fruit is considered a rindworm, although many of these insects feed primarily on stems and foliage. At any given time and location, different species may be present. Currently, in Florida, beet armyworm and cabbage looper (described in more detail in the following paragraphs) are the most abundant, but at other times, granulate cutworms, tobacco budworms, corn earworm, and other armyworms may be important. Control measures may vary for each species so it is important to identify them properly. In general, it is much easier to control these insects when they are small.Cabbage looper , Trichoplusia ni (Hubner) ( Figure 3 ), feeds on a variety of crops. The adults are night-flying moths with brown, mottled forewings marked in the center with a small, silver figure eight. They lay their eggs (small, ridged, round, greenish-white) singly on both upper and lower leaf surfaces. The eggs hatch into larvae that are green with white stripes running the length of their bodies. The caterpillar has three pairs of slender legs near its head and then three pairs of thick prolegs near the end of its body. Cabbage loopers move in a characteristic looping motion, alternately stretching forward and arching its back as it brings the back prolegs close to its front legs. After feeding for two to four weeks, the caterpillar, about 1.25 inches long when fully grown, spins a cocoon and pupates. The adults emerge 10 days to two weeks later. There can be several generations per year depending on climate.
Figure 3. Cabbage looper larva. Beet armyworm , Spodoptera exigua (Hubner) ( Figure 4 ), also feeds on many crops and weeds. The highly mobile adult moth has dark forewings with mottled lighter markings and hind wings thinly covered with whitish scales. Each female can lay over 600 eggs, generally in masses of about 100 on the undersides of leaves in the lower plant canopy. Very young caterpillars feed in groups and then disperse as they grow older (third instar). The dull green caterpillars have wavy, light-colored stripes lengthwise down the back and broader stripes on each side. After feeding from one to three weeks, they construct a cocoon and pupate, emerging as adults about one week later. Beet armyworm survives the winter in South Florida and can complete many generations a year there. From South Florida, adults migrate into North Florida and other parts of the Southeast.
Figure 4. Beet armyworm larva.
Damage
Caterpillars feed on stems and foliage, but their feeding on the rind of the watermelon causes the most economically important damage. The irregularly-shaped white to tan blotches left after the caterpillar feeds on the upper layers of the rind make the fruit less marketable.
Pickleworm, Diaphania nitidalis
Description
The moth ( Figure 5 ) has a wing expanse of about 1.2 inches. The wings are a semi-transparent yellow color bordered by dark brown. Eggs are very small, initially white but quickly turning yellow. Young larvae ( Figure 6 ) are a creamy white color with dark gray or black spots. The spots are lost at the last molt. The fifth instar larva, often green in color, turns a coppery color before pupating.
Figure 5. Pickleworm adult.
Figure 6. Pickleworm young larva.
Biology
Moths are active only at night. When they are a few days old, females begin laying eggs in small clusters of 2 to 7, mostly on buds, flowers, and other actively growing plant parts. Each female moth can produce up from 300 to 400 eggs. Young larvae are often found in flower buds. They often burrow into the fruit as they grow larger. When ready to pupate, they leave the fruit and move to leaves.
Damage
Pickleworm attacks squash, pumpkin, cantaloupe, and cucumber, but rarely watermelon. Damage to flowers reduces fruit production. Fruit are ruined when larvae burrow into them. When populations are very high, larvae may burrow into the apical meristem. Because the larva is usually inside a plant part, control is difficult.
Melonworm, Diaphania hyalinata
Description
The wingspan of the moth ( Figure 7 ) is about 1 inch. Wings are white and edged with dark brown. Eggs are very small, oval, and flattened. They are white or greenish initially but quickly turn yellow. Newly hatched larvae are colorless but after molting become yellow-green ( Figure 8 ). The last instar has two white stripes running the length of the body. The stripes disappear when the caterpillar pupates. The pupa is dark brown and often found in a loose cocoon in a fold of leaf.
Figure 7. Melonworm adult.
Figure 8. Melonworm larva.
Biology
Melonworm is present throughout the year in South Florida but must disperse northward each year. It usually reaches North Florida in June and can complete several generations before the onset of cold weather. Moths are active at night and rest under leaves during the day. They deposit their eggs in small clusters in buds, stems and leaves. The larva completes its development in about 14 days and then pupates, remaining in the pupal stage about 9 to 10 days.
Damage
Melonworm feeds on leaves and occasionally on the surface of fruit. Summer and winter squash are its preferred hosts. High populations will defoliate plants leaving nothing but leaf veins. On less preferred hosts like cantaloupe, larvae may feed on the surface of the fruit, leading to the name rindworm (a name also used to describe several caterpillars feeding on watermelon rind).Table 5. Melonworm.
Management Option
Recommendation
Scouting/ thresholds
Check plants regularly for signs of feeding damage to leaves and for the presence of larvae.
Note(s)
Pollinators, particularly honeybees, are very important for good fruit set in cucurbits. Insecticides applied for melonworm control must be applied when bees are not actively foraging. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can be very effective.
Natural enemies
Over half a dozen parasitoid wasps and flies are known to attack larvae and eggs. Several beetles and red imported fire ant also attack larvae and eggs.
Resistant varieties
No resistant varieties are available.
Other cultural practices
Early plantings of squash, cucumbers, and cantaloupe, especially in Central and North Florida where melonworm does not normally overwinter, may escape damage. Row covers will exclude moths but must be removed for pollination. Squash has been suggested as a trap crop for other cucurbits because it is highly preferred by melonworm.
Cucumber Beetles, Acalymma vittatum (Fabricius), Diabrotica undecimpunctata howardi Barber, Diabrotica balteata Le Conte
Description
There are three species of cucumber beetles that attack cucurbits in Florida. They are considered occasional pests. Banded cucumber beetle (Diabrotica balteata) ( Figure 9 ) is more common in the southern part of the state, and the spotted cucumber beetle (Diabrotica undecimpunctata howardi) ( Figure 10 ) is more common in North Florida. The striped cucumber beetle (Acalymma vittatum) may also be found but is not as common. All three species are approximately 1/4 inch in length. The banded cucumber beetle is green with yellow bands across the top; the spotted has 12 black spots on a yellow-green background. The striped cucumber beetle has 3 black stripes lengthwise along its yellow body. Larvae are yellowish-white and worm-like and may reach a length of 3/4 inch. They have three pairs of legs, a brown head, and a brown plate at the other end.
Figure 9. Banded cucumber beetle.
Figure 10. Spotted cucumber beetle. Biology
Adult beetles will feed on wild hosts (i.e., sunflower, dandelion, Rosaceae family) until cucurbits are available. Once plants emerge or are transplanted, cucumber beetle adults can appear in the field in large numbers in a very short time. Beetles are most active in the morning and late afternoon. Females begin to lay eggs as they disperse throughout the field. Eggs hatch in 6 - 9 days while the larval stage lasts 2 - 3 1/2 weeks. Pupation takes 6 - 10 days.
Damage
Adult beetles feed on emerging plants or transplants. Feeding damage can occur very quickly with cotyledons usually being fed on first and then foliage. Beetles can also feed on stems below plastic mulch. Plants will begin to wilt and then collapse due to the stem feeding. The larva of the cucumber beetle feeds on roots and stems and can cause severe damage to very small plants, but less damage to larger plants with more fully developed root systems. Later in the season beetles can feed on watermelon rind causing mostly cosmetic damage to the fruit, which may reduce marketability. Beetles can transmit Erwinia tracheiphila, the causal agent of bacterial wilt, to some cucurbits (watermelon is not affected).
Leafminers, Liriomyza sativae Blanchard, L. trifolii Burgess
Description and Damage
Leafminers have been occasionally reported as a major pest in South Florida. The adult leafminer is a small fly ( Figure 11 ), about 1/8 to 1/10 of an inch long with a yellow abdomen. The fly inserts her eggs in feeding punctures on the upper leaf surface. Larvae (maggots) feed between the upper and lower leaf surfaces, creating meandering mines that enlarge as the larvae grow. After approximately two weeks in warm weather the larva completes development and leaves the mine, dropping to the ground to pupate. The complete life cycle can be as short as 18 to 21 days. Infestations can be more severe late in the growing season, particularly if adults migrate out of nearby crop residue into late-planted fields. Defoliation of the crop late in the season can lead to sun scalding of the fruit.
Figure 11. Adult leafminer.
Thrips, Melon Thrips, Thrips palmi Karny; Tobacco Thrips, Frankliniella fusca (Hinds)
Description
Thrips are very small (1/25 to 1/10 inches long) ( Figure 12 ), slender insects that, depending on the species, feed on leaves, pollen, and flower parts. Tobacco thrips adults are dark in color. It is usually not possible to identify thrips to species level without the aid of a microscope.
Figure 12. Melon thrips adult.
Damage
Thrips palmi is by far the most serious thrips pest of watermelon. So far, in the United States, it has been reported only in Hawaii and South Florida where it attacks a number of vegetable crops. In watermelon, its feeding causes bronzing of foliage and destruction of vine tips, leading to limited canopy development. Tobacco thrips has been mainly reported as a pest of seedling watermelon plants in Central and North Florida. Feeding damage to developing leaves leads to scarring that is similar to abrasion by blowing sand.
Seedcorn Maggot, Delia platura (Meigen)
Description
Adults ( Figure 13 ) are the size of small houseflies and are grayish-brown. The maggots ( Figure 14 ) are pale, yellowish-white and reach a length of 1/4 inch when fully grown.
Figure 13. Adult seedcorn maggot (fly).
Figure 14. Seedcorn maggot.
Biology
Flies become active in early spring and begin to search for organic matter to lay their eggs. Fields that have a cover crop that has just been plowed under are very attractive to flies. Flies prefer cool, wet (moist) conditions. The females lay eggs in soil and at the base of transplants. Eggs hatch quickly and first instar maggots bore into seed or the stem of seedlings.
Damage
Seeds are destroyed. If the maggot feeds inside the stem of a seedling, the feeding injury causes the plant to wilt and eventually die. In Florida, maggots cause problems mainly in the northern part of the state during cool, wet springs in fields with high organic matter.
Wireworms, Agriotus spp., Melanotus spp. and Other Elateridae
Description
Wireworms ( Figure 15 ) are the shiny, hard-bodied, slender larvae of the click beetle. Larvae ( Figure 16 ) are brownish yellow and 1/2 - 1 1/2 inches long. Adults are large, brown beetles that make a clicking sound when they try to right themselves after being on their backs.
Figure 15. Wireworm adult.
Figure 16. Wireworm larva.
Biology
Depending on species, wireworm larvae can stay in the soil for 1 to 5 years. Eggs are laid singly in soil 1 to 6 inches deep in spring or summer. Hatching takes place in 2 to 4 weeks. Because of the long egg-laying period, overlapping generations (larvae of different sizes) are present. Adults prefer to oviposit into grassy areas, which include rye, wheat, oats, mixed pastures, or old fields, and even potatoes.
Damage
Larvae drill into seeds, stems, or roots of plants. They can cause wilting only days after transplants are in the field.
Mole Crickets
Description
Of the 10 species of mole crickets , only a few are pests. The tawny mole cricket is the most damaging to vegetable crops ( Figure 17 ). The presence of mole crickets can be detected by the meandering tunnels they create. Approximately 1/2 inch in diameter, tunnels are just below the surface and resemble miniature ground mole tunnels.
Figure 17. Mole cricket adult.
Biology
In the southeastern United States, there is one generation per year. Eggs are laid in chambers, 4 to 12 inches underground, from April through June. Eggs hatch after about three weeks. The adults of the previous generation die off during May and June and most of the new generation reaches the adult stage in the fall and early winter. These adults overwinter and breed in the spring. For two to three months in the spring, tawny mole crickets are most commonly seen during their brief mating flights, which begin shortly after sunset.
Damage
Mole crickets mainly feed on plant roots. At night, in warm, wet weather, they will also feed on stems and leaves at surface level. Their tunneling in, around, and under the developing root system, in addition to feeding, is particularly damaging to young seedlings. Bahiagrass is a preferred food and cucurbit fields that were in bahiagrass pasture the previous year may harbor large populations.
Management
In areas where mole crickets are known to cause problems, a preplant application of a soil insecticide that is incorporated into the soil is the most useful control measure. Because of the damage done to pastures and turf, much effort has gone into finding natural enemies of this pest in South America and releasing them in the United States.
Tables
Table 1. Melon aphid.
Management Option
Recommendation
Scouting/ thresholds
The presence of curling, thickened, crumpled leaves is a good indication of the presence of melon aphids on cantaloupe and watermelon. On squash, aphids are generally found on older leaves or on flowers. the undersides of leaves should be examined. If an average of more than 5 to 10 aphids per leaf are found on 20 to 50 leaves taken throughout the field, control measures may be needed.
Note(s)
If the infestation is localized, spot-treatment with a recommended insecticide (Tables 11-14) may solve the problem. Insecticides will not slow the spread of aphid-transmitted mosaic viruses.
Mulches
Reflective mulches may slow down infestation when plants are small and may repel virus vectors until plants cover mulch.
Natural enemies
Beneficial natural enemies such as lady beetles, lacewings, and larvae of syrphid flies feed on aphids. Tiny wasps lay their eggs in aphids. The wasp larva matures inside the living aphid and finally exits, leaving a gold or tan shell (aphid mummy) behind. Occasionally, fungi will infect aphids, drastically reducing populations.
Resistant varieties
No commercial watermelon or cantaloupe varieties are resistant to aphids or aphid-borne viruses. There are squash and cucumber varieties with good resistance to common viruses.
Site selection
Avoid planting next to earlier, infested, or virus-infected cucurbits. Avoid planting near cotton, another source of aphids.
Table 2. Silverleaf whitefly.
Management
Option
Recommendation
Scouting/ threshold
Adults are generally monitored using yellow sticky traps or by carefully turning over leaves to examine the underside where whiteflies typically feed and lay eggs. This is best done during the coolest part of the day when whiteflies are least active. The younger leaves of many crops are more preferred by adult whiteflies than older leaves, but any fully expanded leaf from the youngest third of the runner or plant can be chosen for examination. The largest nymphs are usually found on older leaves. There are no established thresholds for whiteflies on most cucurbits. In Texas and Arizona, a threshold of 3 adults on the third youngest leaf has been used successfully for cantaloupe.
Note(s)
The use of insecticide is the primary tactic for whitefly; however, it can be expensive and complicated by insecticide resistance and disruption of natural enemies. Systemic insecticides can be very effective and less harmful for beneficial insects. See Tables 11-14 for pesticides labeled by crop.
Mulches
Reflective mulch may be helpful early in the season before plants cover it.
Natural enemies
Lacewing and lady beetle larvae feed on whitefly nymphs and eggs, tiny wasps parasitize the nymphs, and insect-specific fungi can infect them.
Resistant varieties
No whitefly-resistant varieties are available.
Site selection
Avoid planting next to other infested crops, especially those that are nearing maturity.
Other cultural practices
Cultural control options include destroying the crop soon after harvest, using physical barriers such as row covers, and planting as early as possible.
Table 3. Rindworm Complex.
Management
Option
Recommendation
Scouting/ thresholds
Fields should be monitored for the presence of caterpillars and feeding damage. Although plants can tolerate a certain amount of feeding on leaves, damage to the fruit may reduce marketability and control measures should be taken.
Note(s)
Many different forms of Bacillus thuringiensis are available that are highly specific for caterpillar pests and will not harm beneficial insects. However, only small caterpillars are highly susceptible. See Tables 11-14 for pesticides labeled by crop.
Natural enemies
In Florida, cabbage loopers have been found naturally infected with an insect virus and granulate cutworm has been found infected with a protozoan. A virus and fungal pathogens also infect beet armyworm. Parasitoids, both wasps and tachinid flies attack beet armyworm. A number of small wasps and a tachinid fly parasitize caterpillars or eggs of cabbage looper. Predaceous bugs, wasps, green lacewings, and spiders may consume eggs and small caterpillars.
Table 4. Pickleworm.
Management Option
Recommendation
Scouting/ thresholds
Because it is so difficult to detect eggs, larvae, or moths before damage is done, most growers begin to apply insecticide as soon as plants begin to flower.
Note(s)
Pollinators, particularly honeybees, are very important for good fruit set in cucurbits. Insecticides applied for pickleworm control must be applied when bees are not actively foraging.
Natural enemies
Nematodes (Steinernema carpocapsae) that attack insects can be very effective for protecting squash because the nematodes enter the flower buds where the young larvae are found. Nematodes are not as effective on cantaloupe and cucumbers, which have small flower buds. Other natural enemies include parasitoid wasps, beetles, and red imported fire ants. None of these reliably suppress damage.
Resistant varieties
No resistant varieties are available.
Other cultural practices
Early plantings of squash, cucumbers, and cantaloupe, especially in Central and North Florida where pickleworm does not normally overwinter, may escape damage.
Table 6. Cucumber beetle.
Management Option
Recommendation
Scouting/ thresholds
Because damage to seedlings can be severe, plants should be monitored regularly as soon as they emerge or are transplanted. Watermelon, which is not susceptible to bacterial wilt, can sustain moderate feeding damage. In the Midwest, five beetles per plant or moderate stem or rind feeding is used as a threshold for treatment. For seedlings, institute controls when 10% of plants show damage. Other cucurbits should be treated when beetles first appear.
Note(s)
Insecticides are currently the only management option.
Other cultural practices
Maintain weed and grass control within and around field borders. Squash is the beetle's favorite host plant and may be used as a trap crop for other cucurbits. Beetles attracted to the squash should be killed with insecticide.
Table 7. Leafminers.
Management
Option
Recommendation
Scouting/ thresholds
Treatment thresholds for leafminers on watermelon have been reported in Hawaii at 20 live leafminer larvae per leaf when vines are less than 20 inches in length, and afterwards, 15 larvae per two consecutive sample dates or 35 live larvae per leaf on a single sample date.
Note(s)
Control with insecticides is difficult. Systemic materials may be required to control larvae within the leaf tissue.
Natural enemies
Leafminers are controlled in large part (75% control reported in Hawaii) by several species of parasitoid wasps. Avoiding the use of broad-spectrum insecticides for other pests will help preserve these natural enemies.
Other cultural practices
Destruction of crop residues from earlier infested plantings may reduce problems in later plantings. Maintain vigorous plant growth through proper fertilization and watering.
Table 8. Thrips.
Management
Option
Recommendation
Scouting/ thresholds
In areas where Thrips palmi is present, leaves and vine tips should be examined for the presence of thrips. Shake the vine tip (still attached to the plant) vigorously against the inside walls of an 8-ounce paper cup and then examine the inside of the cup for thrips. For areas where tobacco thrips is a problem, the seedling can be tapped and gently shaken over a stiff piece of white paper. A hand lens is helpful for examining leaves for the presence of thrips. In Hawaii, insecticides are applied if 8 active thrips are found per leaf or if 20% of the vine tips are infested.
Note(s)
Most conventional insecticides seem to stimulate melon thrips populations, possibly by eliminating predators that otherwise control them. Therefore, broad-spectrum insecticides should be avoided as much as possible in preference to selective materials when available.
Natural enemies
Preservation of natural enemies such as pirate bugs (Orius spp.) that feed on thrips is desirable.
Resistant varieties
None available
Site selection
Avoid planting near other crops that are infested.
Table 9. Seedcorn maggot.
Management Option
Recommendation
Scouting/ thresholds
Presently there are no good ways to monitor fly populations before they become pests. To identify maggot injury, examine seedlings in areas of poor emergence or seedling wilt for root and stem feeding. Maggots may be found in the seedling.
Mulches
If planting takes place when soils are cool, plastic mulch will warm the soil and reduce seedcorn maggot injury.
Natural enemies
Predators, parasites, and pathogens help suppress fly populations.
Resistant varieties
None available
Other cultural practices
Transplanting or direct seeding should begin when soil temperatures are above a high of 72°F at a depth of 4 inches. Soil temepratures below this will increase the likelihood of damage. Any organic matter should be plowed into the soil at least 2 to 4 weeks before transplanting.
Table 10. Wireworms.
Management Option
Recommendation
Scouting/ thresholds
To determine if wireworms are present before planting, 4 to 5 bait stations should be placed in the field 4 to 5 weeks before planting. A station is a hole, approximately 6 inches (15 cm) deep, with a cupful of untreated wheat and corn. The hole is covered and in 2 to 3 weeks is dug up and checked for the presence of wireworm larvae. One wireworm per station justifies a treatment.
Note(s)
Preplant applications of soil insecticides should be considered if an area has a history of soil insect problems (wireworms, mole crickets, cutworms, seedcorn maggots, cucumber beetle larvae).
Mulches
If planting takes place when soils are cool, the use of plastic mulch will warm the soil more quickly and reduce wireworm injury.
Resistant varieties
None available.
Site selection
If possible, avoid areas with a history of wireworm problems.
Other cultural practices
Planting when the soil is warm will lessen the chances of wireworm injury.
Table 11. Selected insecticides approved for use on insects attacking cantaloupes.
Trade Name
(Common Name)
Rate
(product/acre)
REI
(hours)
Days to Harvest
Insects
MOA
Code1
Notes
Acramite 50-WS (bifenazate)
0.75-1.0 lb
12
3
twospotted spider mite
25
Only one application per season.
Admire 2 F (imidacloprid)
16-24 oz
12
21 (soil)
aphids, cucumber beetles, leafhoppers, thrips, whiteflies
4A
Will not control thrips in flowers.
0.1 fl oz/1000 plants
12
21
aphids, whiteflies
4A
Planthouse - See label, 1 application.
Agree WG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies aizawai)
0.5-2.0 lb
4
0
lepidopteran larvae (caterpillar pests)
11B1
Apply when larvae are small for best control. OMRI-listed2.
*Agri-Mek 0.15 EC (abamectin)
8-16 fl oz
12
7
leafminers, spider mites
6
Minimum 7-day intervals, no more than 2 sequential applications.
*Ambush 25 W (permethrin)
6.4-12.8 oz
12
0
cabbage looper, cucumber beetles, cutworms, leafminers, Lygus bug, melonworm, pickleworm, plant bugs, rindworms, squash vine borer, stink bugs
3
Do not apply more than 1.6 lb ai/acre per season.
*Asana XL 0.66 EC (esfenvalerate)
5.8-9.6 fl oz
12
3
cabbage looper, corn earworm, cucumber beetles (adults), cutworms (seedling spray), grasshoppers, leafhoppers, Lygus bug, pickleworm, rindworms, squash bug, squash vine borer, stink bugs
3
Do not apply more than 0.25 lb ai/acre per season.
Aza-Direct (azadirachtin)
1-2 pts, up to 3.5 pts if needed
4
0
aphids, beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers, leafminers, mites, stink bugs, thrips, weevils, whiteflies
26
Antifeedant, repellent, insect growth regulator. OMRI-listed2.
Azatin XL (azadirachtin)
5-21 fl oz
4
0
aphids, beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers, leafminers, mites, stink bugs, thrips, weevils, whiteflies
26
Antifeedant, repellent, insect growth regulator.
Biobit HP (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)
0.5-2.0 lb
4
0
caterpillars (will not control large armyworms)
11B2
Treat when larvae are young. Good coverage is essential. Can be used in the greenhouse.
BotaniGard 22 WP, ES (Beauveria bassiana)
WP: 0.5-2.0 lb/100 gal
ES:
0.5-2 qt 100/gal
4
0
aphids, thrips whiteflies
--
May be used in greenhouses. Contact dealer for recommendations if an adjuvant must be used. Not compatible in tank mix with fungicides.
*Capture 2 EC (bifenthrin)
2.6-6.4 fl oz
12
3
aphids, armyworms, cabbage looper, corn earworm, cucumber beetles, cutworms, grasshoppers, leafhoppers, melonworm, mites, pickleworm, plant bugs, rindworms, squash bug, squash vine borer, stink bugs, tobacco budworm
3
Do not apply more than 19.2 ounces of product per acre per season. Do not make more than 2 applications after bloom.
Condor (Bacillus thuringiensis
subspecies kurstaki)
0.67-1.67 qts
4
0
caterpillars
11B2
Do not use in combination with any chlorothalonil-based fungicides. Use caution when mixing with other oil-based products or surfactants. Treat when larvae are young. Good coverage is essential.
Courier 70WP (buprofezin)
70WP: 6-9 oz 40SC: 9-13.6 fl oz
12
7
whitefly nymphs
16
Insect growth regulator. Do not make more than 2 applications per season per crop. Do not plant food crops except those on the label within 120 days following application.
Crymax WDG (Bacillus thuringiensis
subspecies kurstaki)
0.5-2.0 lb
4
0
caterpillars
11B2
Use high rate for armyworms. Treat when larvae are young.
*Danitol 2.4 EC (fenpropathrin)
10.67 fl oz
24
7
banded cucumber beetle, cabbage looper, fall armyworm, green stink bugs, plant bugs, spider mites, striped cucumber beetle, yellowstriped armyworm
3
Mix with endosulfan for aphid, thrips, and whitefly control.
Deliver (Bacillus thuringiensis
subspecies kurstaki)
0.25-1.5 lb
4
0
caterpillars
11B2
Use higher rates for armyworms. OMRI-listed2.
Dibrom 8 EC (naled)
1 pt
48
1
aphids, armyworms, leafhoppers, leafminers, loopers
1B
Neted varieties only. Apply no more than 2 pt per acre per season. Do not apply when temperature is over 90°F.
*Diazinon 4 E, *50 W (diazinon)
AG500, 4E: 0.5-1.5 pts 50W: 0.5-1.5 lb
24
3 (foliar)
aphids, cucumber beetles, leafhoppers, leafminers, melonworm, mites, thrips
1B
Will not control organophosphate-resistant leafminers. Limited to 5 applications.
AG500, 4E: 2-4 qts 50W: 4-8 lb
preplant
cutworms, wireworms
Dimethoate 4 EC, 2.67 EC (dimethoate)
4EC: 1 pt 2.67: 1.5 pts
48
3
aphids, leafhoppers, leafminers, thrips
1B
Highly toxic to bees.
DiPel DF (Bacillus thuringiensis
subspecies kurstaki)
0.5-2.0 lb
4
0
caterpillars
11B2
Treat when larvae are young. Good coverage is essential.
Endosulfan 3 EC (endosulfan)
0.66-1.33 qts
24
2
aphids, armyworms, cabbage looper, cucumber beetles, flea beetles, loopers, melonworm, pickleworm, squash beetle, squash bug, squash vine borer, whiteflies
2
Do not make more than six applications per year or apply more than 3 lb active ingredient per acre per year.
Entrust (spinosad)
1.25-2.5 oz
4
3
armyworms, cabbage looper, leafminers, melonworm, pickleworm, rindworms, thrips
5
No more than 6 applications per crop or 9 oz per acre per crop. OMRI-listed2.
Esteem Ant Bait (pyriproxyfen)
1.5-2.0 lb
12
1
red imported fire ant
7C
Apply when ants are actively foraging.
Extinguish ((S)-methoprene)
1.0-1.5 lb
4
0
fire ants
7A
Slow-acting IGR (insect growth regulator). Best applied early spring and fall where crop will be grown. Colonies will be reduced after three weeks and eliminated after 8 to 10 weeks. This is the only fire ant bait that is labeled for use on cropland. May be applied by ground equipment or aerially.
Fulfill (pymetrozine)
2.75 oz
12
0
green peach aphid, melon aphid, suppression of whiteflies
9B
Minimum of 7 days between applications.
Intrepid 2F (methoxyfenozide)
4-10 fl oz
4
3
armyworms (including beet and southern), cabbage looper, melonworm, pickleworm
18
Apply no more than 4 applications per year at a rate of 4 to 10 ounces per acre. This is a good product to use in rotation with SpinTor.
Javelin WG (Bacillus thuringiensis
subspecies kurstaki)
0.12-1.50 lb
4
0
most caterpillars, but not Spodoptera species (armyworms)
11B2
Treat when larvae are young. Thorough coverage is essential. OMRI-listed2.
Kelthane 50WSP (dicofol)
1.25 lb
48
2
mites
20
Do not apply more than twice per season.
Knack IGR (pyriproxyfen)
8-10 fl oz
12
7
whiteflies
7C
Do not apply more than twice per season.
Kryocide (cryolite)
8-16 lb
12
14
cabbage looper, cucumber beetles, flea beetles, melonworm, pickleworm
9A
Do not exceed 64 lb/acre per season.
*Lannate LV, *SP (methomyl)
LV: 1.5-3.0 pt SP: 0.5-1.0 lb
48
1=1 1/2 pts 3=1 1/2+ pts
aphids, beet armyworm, cucumber beetles, fall armyworm, flea beetles, granulate cutworms, loopers, melonworm, pickleworm, tobacco budworm, variegated cutworm, yellowstriped armyworm
1A
Lepinox WDG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)
1-2 lb
12
0
most caterpillars, Including beet armyworm (see label)
11B2
Treat when larvae are small. Thorough coverage is essential.
*MSR Spray Concentrate (oxydemeton-methyl)
1.5-2 pt
48
14
aphids, mites
1B
Do not apply more than 3 times per season.
M-Pede 49% EC (Soap, insecticidal)
1-2% V/V
12
0
aphids, leafhoppers, mites, thrips, whiteflies
--
Neemix 4.5 (azadirachtin)
4-16 fl oz
12
0
fall armyworm, leafminers, pickleworm, rindworms, squash bug, squash vine borer, tobacco budworm, whiteflies
26
IGR and feeding repellent. Greenhouse and field use. OMRI-listed2.
Oberon 2SC (spiromesifen)
7.0-8.5 fl oz
12
7
twospotted spider mite, whiteflies
23
Maximum amount per crop: 25.5 fl oz acre. No more than 3 applications.
Platinum (thiamethoxam)
5-8 fl oz
12
30
aphids, flea beetles, whiteflies
4A
For most crops that are not on the label, a 120-day plant-back interval must be observed.
*Pounce 3.2 EC (permethrin)
4-8 oz
12
0
aphids, cabbage looper, cucumber beetles, cutworms, leafhoppers, leafminers, Lygus bug, melonworm, pickleworm, plant bugs, rindworms, squash vine borer, stink bugs
3
Pyrellin EC (pyrethrin + rotenone)
1-2 pt
12
12
aphids, leafhoppers, leafminers, loopers, Lygus bug, mites, plant bugs, thrips, whiteflies
3, 21
Sevin 80S, 4F XLR (carbaryl)
80S: 0.63-1.25 lb 4F, XLR: 0.5-1.0 qt
12
3
ants, cucumber beetles, flea beetles, grasshoppers, leafhoppers, melonworm, pickleworm, squash bug
1A
SpinTor 2 SC (spinosad)
4-8 fl oz
4
3
armyworms, cabbage looper, leafminers, melonworm, pickleworm, rindworms, thrips
5
Do not apply more than 3 times in a 21-day period. Rotate to a different class of product for 21 days.
Sulfur, others
See label
24
1
mites
--
Sun Spray 98.8%, JMS Stylet-Oil, others (Oil, insecticidal)
3-6 qts/100 gel (JMS)
4
0
leafhoppers, leafminers, mites, thrips, whiteflies
--
See label for cautions on tank mixes. Organic Stylet-oil is OMRI-listed2.
*Telone C-35 (dichloropropene + chloropicrin)
See label
5 days (See label)
preplant
symphylans, wireworms
--
See supplemental label for use restrictions in south and central Florida.
Trigard (cyromazine)
2.66 oz
12
0
leafminers
17
Do not make more than 6 applications.
Trilogy (extract of neem oil)
0.5-2.0% V/V
4
0
aphids, mites, suppression of thrips and whiteflies
26
Apply morning or evening to reduce potential for leaf burn. Toxic to bees exposed to direct treatment. OMRI-listed2.
Venom 20SG (dinotefuran)
foliar: 0.44-0.895 lb soil: 1.13-1.34 lb
12
foliar - 1 soil - 21
green peach aphid, leafhoppers, leafminers, melon aphid, thrips, whiteflies
4A
Do not apply more than 1.34 lb per acre per season (foliar) or 2.68 lb per acre per season (soil). Do not use both application methods.
*Vydate L (oxamyl)
2-4 pt
48
1
aphids, leafminers, thrips
1A
Xentari DF (Bacillus thuringiensis
subspecies aizawai)
4
0
caterpillars
Treat when larvae are young. Thorough coverage is essential. May be used in the greenhouse. Can be used in organic production.
The pesticide information presented in this table was current with federal and state regulations at the time of revision. The user is responsible for determining the intended use is consistent with the label of the product being used. Use pesticides safely. Read and follow label instructions.
1 Mode of Action codes for vegetable pest insecticides from the Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) Mode of Action Classification v.3.3 October 2003. 1A. Acetylcholine esterase inhibitors, Carbamates
1B. Acetylcholine esterase inhibitors, Organophosphates
2A. GABA-gated chloride channel antagonists
3. Sodium channel modulators
4A. Nicotinic Acetylcholine receptor agonists/antagonists, Neonicotinoids
5. Nicotinic Acetylcholine receptor agonists (not group 4)
6. Chloride channel activators
7A. Juvenile hormone mimics, Juvenile hormone analogues
7C. Juvenile hormone mimics, Pyriproxifen
9A. Compounds of unknown or non-specific mode of action (selective feeding blockers), Cryolite
9B. Compounds of unknown or non-specific mode of action (selective feeding blockers), Pymetrozine
11B1. Microbial disruptors of insect midgut membranes, B.t. var aizawai
11B2. Microbial disruptors of insect midgut membranes, B.t. var kurstaki
12B. Inhibitors of oxidative phosphorylation, disruptors of ATP formation, Organotin miticide
15. Inhibitors of chitin biosynthesis, type 0, Lepidopteran
16. Inhibitors of chitin biosynthesis, type 1, Homopteran
17. Inhibitors of chitin biosynthesis, type 2, Dipteran
18. Ecdysone agonist/disruptor
20. Site II electron transport inhibitors
21. Site I electron transport inhibitors
22. Voltage-dependent sodium channel blocker
23. Inhibitors of lipid biosynthesis
25. Neuroactive (unknown mode of action)
26. Unknown mode of action, Azadirachtin
2OMRI-listed: Listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute for use in organic production.
* Restricted Use Pesticide
Table 12. Selected insecticides approved for use on insects attacking cucumbers.
Trade Name
(Common Name)
Rate
(product/acre)
REI
(hours)
Days to Harvest
Insects
MOA
Code1
Notes
Acramite 50-WS (bifenazate)
0.75-1.0 lb
12
3
twospotted spider mite
25
Only one application per season.
Admire 2 F (imidacloprid)
0.1 fl oz/1000 plants
12
21
aphids, whiteflies
4A
Planthouse: 1 application to transplants. See label.
12
0 (soil)
aphids, whiteflies
Mature plants in greenhouse, one application. Do not apply to immature plants.
16-24 oz
12
21
aphids, cucumber beetles, leafhoppers, thrips, whiteflies
Will not control thrips in flowers.
Agree WG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies aizawai)
0.5-2.0 lb
4
0
lepidopteran larvae (caterpillar pests)
11B1
Apply when larvae are small for best control. OMRI-listed2.
*Agri-Mek 0.15 EC (abamectin)
8-16 fl oz
12
7
leafminers, spider mites
6
Minimum 7-day intervals. No more than 2 sequential applications.
*Ambush 25W (permethrin)
6.4-12.8 oz
12
0
cabbage looper, cucumber beetles (adults), cutworms, leafminers, Lygus bug, melonworm, pickleworm, rindworms, squash bug, squash vine borer, stink bugs
3
Do not apply more than 1.6 lb active ingredient per acre per season.
*Asana XL 0.66 EC (esfenvalerate)
5.8-9.6 fl oz
12
3
cabbage looper, corn earworm, cucumber beetles (adults), cutworms (seedling spray), grasshoppers, leafhoppers, Lygus bug, pickleworm, rindworms, squash bug, squash vine borer, stink bugs
3
Do not apply more than 0.25 lb a.i. per acre per season.
Aza-Direct (azadirachtin)
1-2 pts, up to 3.5 pts, if needed
4
0
aphids, beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers, leafminers, mites, stink bugs, thrips, weevils, whiteflies
26
Antifeedant, repellent, insect growth regulator. OMRI-listed2.
Azatin XL (azadirachtin)
5-21 fl oz
4
0
aphids, beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers, leafminers, mites, stink bugs, thrips, weevils, whiteflies
26
Antifeedant, repellent, insect growth regulator.
Biobit HP (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)
0.5-2.0 lb
4
0
caterpillars (will not control large armyworms)
11B2
Treat when larvae are young. Good coverage is essential. Can be used in the greenhouse. OMRI-listed2.
BotaniGard 22 WP, ES (Beauveria bassiana)
WP: 0.5-2 lb/100 gal ES: 0.5-2 qt/100 gal
4
0
aphids, thrips, whiteflies
--
May be used in greenhouses. Contact dealer for recommendations if an adjuvant must be used. Not compatible in tank mix with fungicides.
*Capture 2 EC (bifenthrin)
2.6-6.4 fl oz
12
3
aphids, armyworms, cabbage looper, corn earworm, cucumber beetles, cutworms, grasshoppers, leafhoppers, melonworm, mites, pickleworm, plant bugs, rindworms, squash bug, squash vine borer, stink bugs, tobacco budworm
3
Do not applymore than 19.2 ounces of product per acre per season. Do not make more than 2 applications after bloom.
Condor (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)
0.67-1.67 qts
4
0
caterpillars
11B2
Do not use in combination with any chlorothalonil-based fungicides. Use caution when mixing with other oil-based products or surfactants. Treat when larvae are young. Good coverage is essential.
Courier 70 WP (buprofezin)
70WP: 6-9 oz
40SC: 9-13.6 fl oz
12
7
whitefly nymphs
16
Insect growth regulator. Do not make more than 2 applications per season per crop. Do not plant food crops except those on the label within 120 days following application.
Crymax WDG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)
0.5-2.0 lb
4
0
caterpillars
11B2
Use high rate for armyworms. Treat when larvae are young.
*Danitol (fenpropathrin)
10.67 fl oz
24
7
banded cucumber beetle, cabbage looper, fall armyworm, green stinkbugs, plant bugs, spider mites, striped cucumber beetle. Tank-mix with endosulfan to control aphids, thrips, and whiteflies
3
Do not apply more often than every 7 days. Do not exceed 0.8 lb active ingredient per acre per season.
Deliver (Bacillus thuringiensis
subspecies kurstaki)
0.25-1.5 lb
4
0
caterpillars
11B2
Use higher rates for armyworms. OMRI-listed2.
Dicofol 4E (dicofol)
0.75 pt
12
2
twospotted mites
20
Do not aply more than twice in season.
DiPel DF (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)
0.5-2.0 lb
4
0
caterpillars
11B2
Treat when larvae are young. Good coverage is essential.
Endosulfan 3EC (endosulfan)
0.66-1.33 qt
24
2
aphids, cabbage looper, cucumber beetles, fall armyworm, flea beetles, melonworm, pickleworm, squash beetle, squash bug, squash vine borer, whiteflies
2
Do not make more than 6 applications per year or exceed 3.0 lb active ingredient per acre per year.
Entrust (spinosad)
1.25-2.5 oz
4
1
armyworms, cabbage looper, leafminers, melonworm, pickleworm, rindworms, thrips
5
Do not apply more than 6 times (or 9 oz per acre per crop). OMRI-listed2.
Esteem Ant Bait (pyriproxyfen)
1.5-2.0 lb
12
1
red imported fire ant
7C
Apply when ants are actively foraging.
Extinguish ((S)-methoprene)
1.0-1.5 lb
4
0
fire ants
7A
Slow-acting IGR (insect growth regulator). Best applied early spring and fall where crop will be grown. Colonies will be reduced after three weeks and eliminated after 8 to 10 weeks. May be applied by ground equipment or aerially.
Fulfill (pymetrozine)
2.75 oz
12
0
green peach aphid, melon aphid, supression of whiteflies
9B
Minimum of 7 days between applications.
Intrepid 2F (methoxyfenozide)
4-10 fl oz
4
3
beet armyworm, cabbage looper, melonworm, pickleworm, rindworm, southern armyworm, true armyworm, yellowstriped armyworm
18
Do not make more than 4 applications per season.
Javelin WG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)
0.12-1.5 lb
4
0
most caterpillars, but not Spodoptera species (armyworms)
11B2
Treat when larvae are young. Thorough coverage is essential. OMRI-listed2.
Kelthane 50 WSP (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)
1.25 lb
48
2
mites
20
Do not apply more than twice per season.
Knack IGR (pyriproxyfen)
8-10 fl oz
12
7
whiteflies (immatures)
7C
Do not apply more than twice per season.
Kryocide (cryolite)
8-12 lb
12
14
cabbage looper, cucumber beetles, flea beetles, melonworm, pickleworm
9A
Do not exceed 48 lb/acre per season. Minimum of 10 days between applications.
*Lannate LV; *SP (methomyl)
LV: 1.5-3.0 pt
SP: 0.5-1.0 lb
48
depends on rate used
aphids, beet armyworm, cucumber beetles, cutworms, fall armyworm, flea beetles, loopers, melonworm, pickleworm, tobacco budworm, variegated cutworm, yellowstriped armyworm
1A
May be applied up to one day before harvest if rate used is 1.5 pts or lb, 3 days if over 1.5.
Malathion 8 F (malathion)
1.75 pt
12
1
aphids, cucumber beetles, leafminers, mites, pickleworm, squash vine borer
1B
Do not apply unless plants are dry. Can be used in greenhouse.
*MSR Spray Concentrate (oxydemeton-methyl)
1.5-2 pt
48
3
aphids, mites
1B
Do not apply more than 2 times per season.
M-Pede 49% EC (Soap, insecticidal)
1-2% V/V
12
0
aphids, leafhoppers, mites, thrips, whiteflies
--
Neemix 4.5 (azadirachtin)
4-16 fl oz
12
0
fall armyworm, leafminers, melonworm, pickleworm, rindworms, squash bug, squash vine borer, tobacco budworm, whiteflies
26
IGR and feeding repellant. Greenhouse and field use. OMRI-listed2.
Oberon 2SC (spiromesifen)
7.0-8.5 fl oz
12
7
twospotted spidermite, whiteflies
23
Maximum amount per crop: 25.5 fl oz/acre. No more than 3 applications.
Oils, Insecticidal SunSpray 98.8%
Ultra-Fine
JMS Stylet Oil
3-6 qts/100 gal (JMS)
4
0
aphids, leafhoppers, leafminers, mites, thrips, whiteflies
--
Organic Stylet-Oil is OMRI-listed2.
Platinum (thiamethoxam)
5-8 fl oz
12
30
aphids, flea beetles, whiteflies
4A
For most crops that are not on the label, a 120-day plant-back interval must be observed.
*Pounce 3.2 EC (permethrin)
4-8 oz
12
0
aphids, cabbage looper, cucumber beetles (adults), cutworms, leafhoppers, leafminers, Lygus bug, melonworm, pickleworm, rindworms, squash bug, squash vine borer, stink bugs
3
Pyrellin EC (pyrethrin + rotenone)
1-2 pt
12
12 hours
aphids, cucumber beetles, flea beetles, leafhoppers, leafminers, loopers, Lygus bug, mites, squash bug, squash vine borer, stink bugs, thrips, whiteflies
3
Sevin 80S, 4F, XLR Plus
(carbaryl)
80S: 0.63-1.25 lb 4F, XLR: 0.5-1 qt
12
3
cucumber beetles, flea beetles, leafhoppers, melonworm, pickleworm, squash bug
1A
Do not apply more than 6 qt or 7.5 lb per acre per crop.
SpinTor 2 SC (spinosad)
4-8 fl oz
4
1
armyworms, cabbage looper, leafminers, melonworm, pickleworm, rindworms, thrips
5
Do not apply more than 29 oz per acre per season.
Spod-XLC (insect virus)
1.7-3.4 fl oz
4
0
beet armyworm
--
Treat when larvae are young. Greenhouse and field use. OMRI-listed2.
*Telone C-35 (dichloropropene + chloropicrin)
See label
5 days (see label)
preplant
symphylans, wireworms
--
See supplemental label for use restrictions in south and central Florida.
Trigard (cyromazine)
2.66 oz
12
0
leafminers
17
Do not make more than six applications.
Trilogy (extract of neem oil)
0.5-2.0% V/V
4
0
aphids, mites, suppression of thrips and whiteflies
26
Apply morening or evening to reduce potential for leaf burn. Toxic to bees exposed to direct treatment. OMRI-listed2.
Venom 20SG (dinotefuran)
foliar: 0.44-0.895 lb soil: 1.13-1.34 lb
12
1 - foliar 21 - soil
green peach aphid, leafhoppers, leafminres, melon aphid, thrips, whiteflies
4A
Do not apply more than 1.34 lb per acre per season (foliar) or 2.68 lb per acre per season (soil). Do not use both application methods.
*Vydate L 2 EC (oxamyl)
2-4 pt
48
1
aphids, leafminers, thrips
1A
Xentari DF (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies aizawai)
0.5-2.0 lb
4
0
caterpillars
11B1
Treat when larvae are young. Thorough coverage is essential. May be used in the greenhouse. Can be used in organic production.
The pesticide information presented in this table was current with federal and state regulations at the time of revision. The user is responsible for determining the intended use is consistent with the label of the product being used. Use pesticides safely. Read and follow label instructions.
1 Mode of Action codes for vegetable pest insecticides from the Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) Mode of Action Classification v.3.3 October 2003. 1A. Acetylcholine esterase inhibitors, Carbamates
1B. Acetylcholine esterase inhibitors, Organophosphates
2A. GABA-gated chloride channel antagonists
3. Sodium channel modulators
4A. Nicotinic Acetylcholine receptor agonists/antagonists, Neonicotinoids
5. Nicotinic Acetylcholine receptor agonists (not group 4)
6. Chloride channel activators
7A. Juvenile hormone mimics, Juvenile hormone analogues
7C. Juvenile hormone mimics, Pyriproxifen
9A. Compounds of unknown or non-specific mode of action (selective feeding blockers), Cryolite
9B. Compounds of unknown or non-specific mode of action (selective feeding blockers), Pymetrozine
11B1. Microbial disruptors of insect midgut membranes, B.t. var aizawai
11B2. Microbial disruptors of insect midgut membranes, B.t. var kurstaki
12B. Inhibitors of oxidative phosphorylation, disruptors of ATP formation, Organotin miticide
15. Inhibitors of chitin biosynthesis, type 0, Lepidopteran
16. Inhibitors of chitin biosynthesis, type 1, Homopteran
17. Inhibitors of chitin biosynthesis, type 2, Dipteran
18. Ecdysone agonist/disruptor
20. Site II electron transport inhibitors
21. Site I electron transport inhibitors
22. Voltage-dependent sodium channel blocker
23. Inhibitors of lipid biosynthesis
25. Neuroactive (unknown mode of action)
26. Unknown mode of action, Azadirachtin
2OMRI-listed: Listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute for use in organic production.
* Restricted Use Pesticide
Table 13. Selected insecticides approved for use on insects attacking squash.
Trade Name
(Common Name)
Rate
(product/acre)
REI
(hours)
Days to Harvest
Insects
MOA Code1
Notes
Acramite 50-WS (bifenazate)
0.75-1.0 lb
12
3
twospotted spider mite
25
Only one application per season.
Admire 2 F (imidacloprid)
16-24 oz
12
21 (soil)
aphids, cucumber beetles, leafhoppers, thrips, whiteflies
4A
Will not control thrips in flowers.
Agree WG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies aizawai)
0.5-2.0 lb
4
0
lepidopteran larvae (caterpillar pests)
11B1
Apply when larvae are small for best control. OMRI-listed2.
*Agri-Mek 0.15 EC (abamectin)
8-16 fl oz
12
7
leafminers, spider mites
6
Minimum 7-day intervals. No more than 2 sequential applications.
*Ambush 25W (permethrin)
6.4-12.8 oz
12
0
cabbage loopers, cucumber beetles, cutworms, leafminers, Lygus bug, melonworms, pickleworms, plant bugs, rindworm complex, squash bug, squash vine borer, stink bugs
3
Do not apply more than 1.6 lb ai/acre per season. (102.4 oz)
*Asana XL 0.66 EC (esfenvalerate)
5.8-9.6 fl oz
12
3
cabbage looper, corn earworm, cucumber beetles (adults), cutworms (seedling spray), grasshoppers, leafhoppers, Lygus bug, pickleworms, rindworm complex, squash bug, squash vine borer, stink bugs
3
Do not apply more than 0.25 lb ai per acre per season. (5 applications at high rate).
Aza-Direct (azadirachtin)
1-2 pts, up to 3.5 pts, if needed
4
0
aphids, beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers, leafminers, mites, stink bugs, thrips, weevils, whiteflies
26
Antifeedant, repellant, insect growth regulator. OMRI-listed2.
Azatin XL (azadrachtin)
5-21 fl oz
4
0
aphids, beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers, leafminers, mites, stink bugs, thrips, weevils, whiteflies
26
Antifeedant, repellent insect growth regulator.
Biobit HP (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)
0.5-2.0 lb
4
0
caterpillars (will not control large armyworms)
11B2
Treat when larvae are young. Good coverage is essential. Can be used in the greenhou
