Pupae of this borer overwinter in soil and emerge about the time vines begin to run. Small, black, wasp-like moths emerge when the pupae split, and lay eggs on the base of the stems. Larvae hatch in about one week or two, then bore into the stems. Registered insecticides should be applied before and during the egg hatch. Other insects that occasionally result in losses include cutworms, aphids, fleabeetles, leafhoppers and spidermites.
Crop rotation is one of the best ways to prevent or reduce disease infestations on pumpkins.
Maximum protection is afforded if pumpkins are not planted on any land where cucurbits of any type have been produced during the past 4 years. It is also important to destroy any plant residues after harvest. Powdery mildew is a fungus disease that first appears on the upper leaf surfaces of the plant. Under favorable conditions, the white, powdery spots will spread over the entire leaf. Infected spots will eventually turn brown and dry.