Vine Squash Borer

I recently posted an article about how to combat the vine squash borer in the garden. Last night I finally got out into the garden to try it and "bandage" up all my squash plants. I was too late for one, had been already attacked by something, but the rest got wrapped up. Hopefully this method will see results, and I can actually be Borer free this year.

Squash and tomato seedlings

The tomato seedlings were transplanted into yogurt cups so they have a little more space to grow but are eagerly  awaiting warmer temperatures to get outside. 

The last of my squash has started to come up. 

Vine Squash Borers

Here is a short article from "You Bet Your Garden" that talks about methods of combating the vine squash borer, which can be detrimental to all types of squash plants. I may have to give the wrapping the bottom of the vine in gauze a try.

Vine Squash Borers

Vicky in Philadelphia, PA has pumpkins, that were grown from seed, in her well tended school garden. Sadly they have been invaded by pesky vine squash borers and she wants to find out how to avoid this as she plans her garden this year. Mike gives a brief introduction about the vine squash borers: They are night flying moths who lay their eggs at the base of very hallow vines. A physical barrier for her pumpkins, Mike points out, is what will be the best option for Vicky. Mike suggests to grow them out doors in containers and remove them from the containers to plant them in the garden when they are about two feet long. Additionally, Mike recommends, with gauze bandage, to “wrap the whole bottom of the vine going down to the dirtball with this gauzy material”. If Vicky wishes, she can also spray under the leaves every couple of days, forcefully, and where they lay there eggs. This process washes them away.

Here is an image of the telltale sign of Vine Squash Borer damage.

Zucchini, Squash and Cucumbers

All of my zucchini, squash and cucumbers I sowed has started and is ready to be translated, once the weather cooperates, we are technically past our average last frost date, but still having some cold nights.

Squash, zucchini and melons

Last I started my summer and winter squash, zucchini and a melon. I hoping this is the year we finally have success with zucchini. I just haven't had any luck growing zucchini as of yet. 

Here is a picture of how the tomatoes, peppers, okra and basil are doing.