Cucumbers, melons, squash and pumpkins are collectively called cucurbits. Cucurbits differ from most garden vegetables in their requirements for pollination. Pollen transfer from male to female flowers is essential for fruit set. Therefore, insecticides must be applied in a judicious manner on cucurbits to avoid bee kill and subsequent yield loss. Regardless of the insecticide used on cucurbits, applications should be made late in the day when bee activity is reduced.
Sprays are usually less damaging to bees than dusts.
Watch leaf for pests Remember to watch for leaf feeding pests of cucurbits such as cucumber beetles. Use Sevin or Malathion when insects or their damage is first noticed. For squash bugs or leaf-footed plant bugs, use Sevin or Thiodan. Fruit-feeders such as pickleworms can be avoided by planting early. Control of pickleworms on late-planted squash and cucumbers may require weekly sprays of Sevin or Thiodan.