Cucurbit IPM on Farm Demonstrations

Abstract

IPM practices in cucurbits were demonstrated at three different farms and on 13 fields (crops included pumpkins, zucchini, cantaloupe, squash, cucumbers, and watermelon). For each field/crop, data on pest levels, pesticide use, insect infestation and damage at harvest were collected. Each field was scouted weekly for striped cucumber beetle, squash bugs and aphids, traps were placed to monitor for squash vine borer, and samples were taken weekly of any possible diseases and brought to Dr. Frank Hay of the Plant Pathology and Plant-­‐Microbe Biology Section for identification. Growers received weekly scouting reports and treatment recommendations. For all three farms the growers reported that having someone scout their cucurbits was extremely helpful and problems were identify much earlier than in previous years.