Southeastern part of country as far north as Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa, and Kansas. Females begin to deposit eggs in midsummer on hairy cucurbit surfaces. Within about three days small pickleworms hatch and begin feeding for a period of two week. Larvae may feed on flowers, vines, and fruit, but their preference is for developing leaf or flower buds. Pupation occurs in cocoons formed inside rolled leaves.
Moths emerge in approximately a week.
Destroy vines, unused fruits, adjoining weeds and trash as soon as crop is harvested. Spading or plowing in early fall will bury pupae. Because pesticide labels can change rapidly, you should read the label directions carefully before buying and using any pesticides. Regardless of the information provided here, you should always follow the latest product label when using any pesticide. If you have any doubt, please contact your local Extension agent or pesticide dealer for the latest information on pesticide label changes.