Squash Bug

These insects feed primarily on squash and pumpkins. Adults and nymphs suck plant sap from the leaves and stems causing wilting and death. Squash bugs overwinter in protected places as unmated adults. They appear rather slowly in the spring. Adults mate and begin laying clusters of eggs about the time the squash vines begin to spread. Eggs are bronze-colored and are laid in clusters of a dozen or more on the leaves. They hatch in about 10 days into nymphs that go through five molts before becoming adults in four to six weeks. Expect only one generation per year. There is only one generation per year.

Control: Early planting usually results in a crop before the infestation kills the plant. Collect eggs and nymphs by hand and destroy. Trap adults and nymphs using an old shingle or cardboard. Bugs gather under the shingle during the heat of the day; they can be destroyed by collecting them or by stepping on them. A tachinid fly parasitizes the adults. Insecticides are available.