squash borer

[curly_kate]

So they got my pumpkins. Well, 3 of them so far. I buried the vines before where the green pumpkins are, hoping that it will grow roots & save the pumpkins that are there. Has anyone tried this? I also sprinkled the main stem with the organic version of sevin dust. I really don't want to lose the whole group, but at least I know what to look for now. Are there squash-borer-resistant pumpkins?

 

[OaklandCityFarmer]

I'm thinking that burying them wouldn't help too much especially since the larvae can overwinter in the soil. :/

I suggested on your other post that you may want to apply some Bt (if the Sevin) doesn't work. You can usually find this at the garden center under Foray or Dipel. It works great on SVB but has to be injected. You may be able to get a syringe at your local pharmacy or even at the garden centers.

Also, some folks have been successful in wrapping the base of the stems in aluminum foil or heavy kraft paper to prevent SVB. There are some varieties that are 'resistant' but I have heard it's not usually the case.

Also, planting borage, nasturtiums, radishes and a few other companion crops can help repel them. As can keeping mulch to a minimum around the plants and not allowing the bugs to overwinter in nearby wood piles or brush.

Good Luck!

 

[curly_kate]

Thanks for the info! I also cut some of the dead leaves off - did I give the borers a direct line into my pumpkins that way??