Arthropod (Insects and Mites) Pest Management

Introduction

Various insects and mites can be important pests in cucurbit crops.  The importance of each pest may depend on the plant growth stage, the time of year and the particular cucurbit crop being grown. 

Integrated Pest Management

Insect and mite pests are best managed by using an approach called Integrated Pest Management or "IPM".  With this approach the grower makes a careful assessment of the pest problem prior to taking action to apply control measures.  Five steps to IPM for insects and mites are as follows:

1.     Monitor crop growth and pest abundance

2.     Identify pests

3.     Make an informed decision of the action to be taken

4.     Take the action decided on

5.     Evaluate the results of control measures taken

More details on the IPM approach   http://www.lane-ag.org/wm-world/Cucurbit_Manual/e-853_3.html#basicipm