What is the Squash Vine Borer?Commonly mistaken for a type of wasp because of its movements, and the bright orange hind leg scales, the Squash Vine Borer (Melitta curcurbitae) is the adult clear-wing moth. The Squash Vine Borer is a common pest of a variety of vine crops, ordinarily attacking winter squash, summer squash, and pumpkins. Cucumbers and melons are less frequently affected.
In the early days of summer, late June or early July, Squash Vine Borer adults emerge from their winter cocoons in the ground. The adults start to lay eggs at the base of vine plants. About one week after they are laid, the eggs hatch and the resulting larvae bore into stems to feed. The larvae feed through the center of the stems, blocking the flow of water to the rest of the plant. This explains how the first symptom of a Squash Vine Borer attack is usually wilting. Closer observation of a wilting plant often reveals holes near the base of the plant filled with moist greenish or orange sawdust-like material. Over time, the base may become mushy or rot away altogether. If the problem is left unchecked the plant will eventually collapse and die. Several borer larvae may attack a single plant. The larvae feed for four to six weeks, then exit the stems and burrow about one to two inches into the soil to pupate. They remain there until the following summer InstructionsThe traps have a strong adhesive surface to retain captured Vine Borer Moths, they cannot escape once stuck to the trap. 100% safe for pets, non toxic. For best results, hang traps a 5-10 feet away from grow area or garden plot to draw adult borers away.
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