Destroying the Squash Bugs

[5ft Diva]

I read in the paper that when you plant squash or zucchini you will get bugs on the underside of the leaves (someone told me that were called aphids, but I don't know) that will destroy your plants. Actually I think they are just the eggs of the bugs, but either way, they aren't good for your plants. The author of the article said that it would be wise to get rid of them as quickly as possible and that the best way of doing so is just to squash them between your fingers (with gloves on, of course!).

Anyway, I was wondering if any of you know what I'm talking about and if that is the right thing or if you have a better suggestion. I went out this morning and squashed all that I saw and it was actually harder than I thought which is why I was asking. Maybe I'm doing this wrong as the suggestion sounded pretty simple.

TIA!

[Dia Minha]

When I researched this last year I read that the only other thing is to spray them as eggs with Seven. You have to spray before they hatch, because it only works on the eggs. The bugs you still have to pick off. I find that the kids actully love to catch the bugs, but hate to smoosh them, so I have them put them in a jar and take care of them later.

[bookworm]

Diva, I don't think it's an absolute guarantee that you'll get the bugs- that's what your post sounds like. I've grown squash many years without any problems from bugs of any kind. I don't like to spray with anything on food we'll be eating- but if you discover a problem, you will want to take care of it fast. Also, if they are aphids, ladybugs will take care of them- you can buy ladybugs online and maybe at a nursery...

[5ft Diva]

Thanks, Dia. I hadn't heard that.

I agree, BW, that I will not eliminate all bugs all of the time. I'm just trying to eliminate a huge problem....kind of like one we had about seven years ago. My squash plant was ruined by bugs. I know that living against an untouched field is responsible for most of what we find in our yard.

[Erudite]

I asked our local nursery guy about it last year, after losing our zucchini and pumpkin to them and he said "seven" as well. I haven't seen any yet this year, so I haven't done much about them as yet. Good luck with them!

[Dia Minha]

Diva, we have them too and they aren't avids. Grandpa B calls them squash bugs. The only way to get them under control is to spray the eggs. You will want to spray now though or they will get ahead of you. You won't be spraying right before harvest and I don't know about you, but that makes me feel a little better. I hate to spray things I'm going to be eating too, but I don't have the time to sit out there and pick bugs all day. We tried it last year and failed misserably. Good luck!

[5ft Diva]

They are on the underside of the leaves. Do you know if I should spray the plant or where the bugs attach themselves?

Thanks again for taking the time to respond to this. I really don't want to lose my plant!

[Dia Minha]

We hold up the leaf and spray underneath, even the ones we don't see eggs on, because it will prevent the bugs from laying more. Good luck Diva. Bugs are such a pain.

[5ft Diva]

Thank you! I really appreciate it!

[natickgirl]

I've also heard that ladybugs help with aphid problems. Thanks for the info about "squash bugs." I've never heard of Seven...is it an insecticide you buy at a nursery? How safe is it?

[5ft Diva]

That's good to know. We do have lady bugs!