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. It is most prevalent in late summer and early fall when warm weather, afternoon showers and dense foliage create an ideal environment for the disease to develop. Chemical control involves application of registered fungicides at the first sign of infection. Fields under sprinkler irrigation should be watered in the early morning to give foliage a chance to dry before evening.