Squash vine borer

For adult squash vine borer, they are attracted to certain pheromones for mating; thus, pheromone traps can be an effective way to lure them. For larval stages, bait made from host plant materials can be appealing.

Eggs of squash vine borer are typically laid on the flowers or leaves of cucurbit plants. Larvae are found within the stems and roots of cucurbits, boring into the tissue as they feed and develop. Pupae are generally located within the same host plant structures or close by in the soil. To locate these stages, inspection of cucurbit fields and plants, especially those showing signs of damage, would be essential. Searching for larvae involves examining plant stems and roots for entrance holes and associated frass, while pupae may be found by carefully excavating the soil at the base of affected plants.

The best time to find adult squash vine borer is often around dusk when they are most active. Larvae can be found throughout the day, depending on their feeding times and host plant activities.

Weather conditions that are not too windy or rainy enhance the chances of finding squash vine borer, as these conditions facilitate their flight and make it more likely to spot them when they are active.