Here are tips on how to identify, eliminate, and control squash
bugs. What are Squash Bugs? Squash bugs are the bane of a
gardeners' existance! They are very difficult to kill and cause
havoc. These bugs inject a toxin into the plant and suck the sap
right out of it. The leaves will wilt, dry up, turn black,
crisp, and brittle. Smaller plants will die. How to Identify
Squash Bugs The squash bug is fairly large (over 1/2-inch long)
with a brownish body and flat back. If you squash them, they
will stink. They overwinter in your dead leaves, vines, under
boards, and even in buildings. They fly to the plants as soon as
vines start forming to mate and they lay egg masses on the
undersides of the leaves.You'll find adults beneath damaged
leavles and near the plant crown. Photo Credit: University of
Delaware Cooperative Extension How to Control Bugs - Early
detection is important as squash bugs are very difficult to
eliminate. - Check the plants daily. If there are no more than a
few vines infected, it's worth colle