Watermelons are a popular summer fruit that is enjoyed by many. However, these plants are susceptible to worms and other pests that can damage the fruit and reduce the yield. If you notice small holes in your watermelon or the fruit appears to be rotting from inside out, it could be a sign of worm infestation. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of worms in watermelon plants and prevent future infestations.
The first step in getting rid of worms in watermelon plants is to identify the type of worm that is causing the damage. There are several types of worms that can infest watermelon plants, including:
Cucumber beetles – these small yellow or green beetles feed on the leaves and stems of plants and can transmit bacterial wilt disease.
Squash vine borers – these larvae bore into the stems of squash and watermelon plants, causing wilting and death.
Cutworms – these caterpillars feed on the leaves and stems of young plants, often cutting them off at soil level.
Fruit worms – these larvae tunnel into the fruit, causing rotting from inside out.
Once you have identified the type of worm, you can take appropriate measures to get rid of them.
There are several natural remedies that you can use to get rid of worms in watermelon plants. These include:
Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can be used to repel or kill a variety of pests, including worms. Mix 2 tablespoons of neem oil with 1 gallon of water and spray onto the plants every 7-10 days.
Diatomaceous earth is a powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of algae. It can be sprinkled around the base of plants to kill worms and other pests. Make sure to use food-grade diatomaceous earth, as other grades may contain harmful chemicals.
Companion planting involves planting certain plants together to repel or attract pests. Planting marigolds, for example, can repel cucumber beetles and other pests.
If natural remedies do not work, chemical remedies may be necessary. However, it is important to use these with caution, as they may harm beneficial insects and pollinators. Always follow the instructions on the label carefully.
Insecticidal soap can be used to kill a variety of pests, including worms. Mix 2 tablespoons of insecticidal soap with 1 gallon of water and spray onto the plants every 7-10 days.
Pyrethrin is a natural insecticide that is derived from chrysanthemum flowers. It can be used to kill a variety of pests, including worms. Follow the instructions on the label carefully.
Prevention is key when it comes to controlling worm infestations in watermelon plants. Here are some tips to prevent future infestations:
Rotate crops – do not plant watermelon or other cucurbits in the same location every year.
Keep the area clean – remove any debris or fallen fruit from the garden.
Use row covers – cover young plants with row covers to prevent pests from laying eggs on them.
Monitor regularly – check your plants regularly for signs of infestation and take action immediately if you notice any.
If you notice small holes in your watermelon or the fruit appears to be rotting from inside out, it could be a sign of worm infestation.
It is not recommended to eat a watermelon that has been infested with worms, as it may be unsafe for consumption.
Watermelons typically take between 80-100 days to mature, depending on the variety and growing conditions.