Discovering the benefits of Bt insecticide for controlling squash bugs

Date:02-27-2023

If you’re growing cucurbits, it’s important to know about squash bugs and whether or not Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can effectively kill them. Squash bugs are one of the most destructive pests for cucurbits, including all types of squash, pumpkins, and cucumbers. These insects feed on plant juices, which weakens plants and stunts growth. They also spread disease, such as bacterial wilt and mosaic virus.

Squash bugs can be difficult to control because they have strong protective shells that often make them resistant to insecticide sprays. The best and most eco-friendly way to kill squash bugs is by hand (or foot), by dropping them immediately into a jar or similar container filled with soapy water. Scraping squash bug eggs from the underside of leaves and disposing of them or dropping them into the same soapy water is also effective.

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a bacterial insecticide that gardeners can spray or inject into squash stems as a preventative treatment for squash vine borer larvae. Bt works by being absorbed by the larvae when they feed afer hatching, however it degrades quickly in sunlight so will need to be reapplied frequently for effective control. Sevin Insect Killer Concentrate and Sevin Insect Killer Ready to Spray are also proven products that can be used to fight difficult squash bugs, killing more than 500 other insect pests including stink bugs by contact.

In conclusion, while Bt can provide some relief in controlling squash bugs, it may not be enough on its own due to its quick degradation in sunlight. Handpicking the adult insects and eggs is generally the most effective way to keep your cucurbits healthy – but when needed use an effective control product like Sevin Insect Killer Concentrate or Ready To Spray for total pest elimination.

Read more at GreenPacks.