Growing Buttercup Winter Squash This Summer - Ask Extension
I quit growing the squash I love a few years ago. Tried moving it all over my garden; even created a new spot 100 ft. from my garden. I still ended ...
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Growing Buttercup Winter Squash This Summer #924583
Asked February 14, 2026, 9:46 AM EST
I quit growing the squash I love a few years ago. Tried moving it all over my garden; even created a new spot 100 ft. from my garden. I still ended up with squash bugs/bores. I can deal with the bugs but the bores are almost impossible to control.
There must be a way to control! Is there a pesticide that can be applied to ground before planting? Will Sevin sprayed on the stems at the base stop the formation? I planted Cantelope in the "upper" garden the last 2 years and didn't have any problems? If I put them in a raised box would they be safer?
Wright County Minnesota
Expert Response
I know how frustrating this can be. I am giving you a link to our pub on dealing with these pests.I have found that having the vines trellis also helps keep them away from the ground. A time consuming physical barrier, such as wrapping foil around the stem as it emerges from the graound and then directing it up a trellis provides a physical barrier. As they overwinter in the soil, changing locations may help. Also, the article gives the pesticides athat are safe to use. Row cover material will not work as it would only trap the insect underneath next to the plant. https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/squash-vine-borers#chemical-controls-3091763
