The Squash Vine Borer (Melittia cucurbitae), a clearwing moth, is a common and destructive pest of certain vine crops. These borers frequently attack both summer and winter squash, pumpkins, zucchini and gourds. Cucumbers, melons and butternut squash are less favored by the squash borers and, so, are not as commonly affected.
The Squash Vine Borer Trap Kit comes with 2 disposable paper delta traps and a lure that selectively attracts male squash vine borer moths, Melittia cucurbita. The lure is effective for up to 45 days. If traps become covered with insects or debris before that time, remove the lure and attach it to a fresh trap. When the lifespan of the lure is complete and the season is still active, replace lure and sticky trap with new ones. Replacement lures and additional delta traps (SKU 1230426) are available.
Squash Vine Borer Biology: Squash vine borers become a problem in the summer as they awaken and emerge from their winter cocoons in the soil. These adults are about ½" long and have an orange abdomen with black spots. They are good fliers and, unlike most moth species, fly during the day. With their coloring and size, these adult borers closely resemble a wasp, especially when in flight. Shortly after emerging, Adult squash vine borers seek out their favored host plants under which they will lay their eggs. It takes about a week for the eggs to hatch and that larvae quickly seeks out the plant stems to bore into and feed on. Feeding is continuous from 2-6 weeks before the larvae leave the plant to return to the soil and pupate. This pupae contains the developing adult that will emerge to repeat this cycle the following year.
Hang traps before May and check them weekly for males. Continue trapping into the fall season.
- Separate the 2 Delta traps by removing the paper clips. Do not remove adhesive cover on trap.
- Fold trap into preliminary shape by following the illustrated instructions or by simply using the creases on the trap as a guide.
- Rapidly peel adhesive cover from trap.
- Fold trap over and connect top ends. Staple (or use paper clips) to close top.
- Insert hanger in hole on top.
- Fold in corners, roof flaps and, then, floor flap. Leave ends open.
- Place lure inside trap and fold flaps at one end.
- Hang trap in desired location.
Illustrated step-by-step instructions can be found
here.
Suggested Uses: For use to selectively attract, capture and kill adult squash vine borers (Melittia cucurbitae) on various crops.
Considerations For Controlling Squash Vine Borers: Getting full control of a squash vine borer infestation can require a multi-pronged, aggressive approach. Removal of the larvae manually or with an instrument, preventative applications of diatomaceous earth, and periodic applications of beneficial nematodes or biocontrol agents should be considered in conjunction with trapping efforts. While trapping is important in identifying the pest and limiting adult populations, it should not be relied upon as a singular control measure. However you elect to treat the problem, early detection accurate monitoring and effective trapping are essential for proper control of your pest problem.
What's In The Package:
- SKU 1254265 - Contains two paper Delta Traps, two 45-day Pheromone Lures, two Trap Hangers and complete illustrated instructions in English and Spanish.
- SKU 1254266 - Contains three 45-day Replacement Lures.
Warning & Toxicities: Results may vary due to seasonal changes, insect pest population variations, natural predator populations, correct trap installation, proper lure storage and weather extremes, disruption, damage and/or contamination due to chemical sprays, pets, children, sprinklers or other unforeseen events.
