Aphids
Damage
Aphids do not cause serious direct injury to cucurbits, but various species of aphids can transmit virus diseases to cucurbits. The use of resistant varieties is the only reliable control measure for diseases caused by viruses. Aphid feeding may result in leaf distortion. Honeydew (a special name for fecal matter of aphids) may also serve as a growing medium for sooty mold, a fungus that can disfigure the fruit with black blotches.
Cultural Control
Reflective mulches may help to repel aphids while also providing horticultural benefits.
Separate later planted fields from existing fields.
Natural enemies will help keep aphid populations in check but will be less effective in very hot weather when aphids reproduce rapidly.
Refrain from using broad-spectrum insecticides.
Eliminate virus host plants such as burdock, poke weed and other perennial broad leaf weeds.
Damage
Aphids do not cause serious direct injury to cucurbits, but various species of aphids can transmit virus diseases to cucurbits. The use of resistant varieties is the only reliable control measure for diseases caused by viruses. Aphid feeding may result in leaf distortion. Honeydew (a special name for fecal matter of aphids) may also serve as a growing medium for sooty mold, a fungus that can disfigure the fruit with black blotches.
Cultural Control
Reflective mulches may help to repel aphids while also providing horticultural benefits.
Separate later planted fields from existing fields.
Natural enemies will help keep aphid populations in check but will be less effective in very hot weather when aphids reproduce rapidly.
Refrain from using broad-spectrum insecticides.
Eliminate virus host plants such as burdock, poke weed and other perennial broad leaf weeds.