What's eating my hubbard squash?

Hubbard squash (Cucurbita maxima) suffers the same core cucurbit threats as other winter squash. Squash vine borers and squash bugs are most destructive. Its large vines attract aphid colonies that can vector Cucumber mosaic virus. Deer browse developing fruit, and its hard ridged skin doesn't fully deter groundhogs once fruit begins to color.

Wilting of secondary and main vine; frass at stem entry points; larvae girdle vascular tissue cutting off water and nutrient flow. Stem collars of foil from soil level to first true leaf; bury vines at nodes every few feet to establish secondary roots; inject Bt into tunnels.

Bronze egg clusters on leaf undersides; mass feeding by nymphs and adults causes angular yellowing and vine dieback; particularly damaging on the large leaves of maxima types. Hand-pick adults and egg masses; board traps overnight; insecticidal soap on early-instar nymphs; remove crop debris immediately after harvest.

Colonies on new growth; honeydew and sooty mold; transmission of Cucumber mosaic virus distorts leaves and reduces fruit quality. Reflective silver mulch to confuse aphids; strong water spray; insecticidal soap; encourage parasitic wasps.

Leaves and young vine tips browsed; developing fruit bitten or knocked from the vine; most active damage at dusk and dawn. 8-foot perimeter deer fence or double-fence system; motion-activated sprinklers or lights; fragrant repellent sprays reapplied after rain.