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Melon Worms: signs and treatment in Jamaica
Caterpillars that defoliate cucurbits and frequently scar the rind of the fruit. PlantArmor's crop guides list melon worms as a common problem on cucumber and watermelon.
Signs to look for
- Severe defoliation of leaves
- Scraping and scarring on the surface of melons
- Green caterpillars with two white lateral stripes
What to do
Crops it affects
Questions growers ask
How do I recognise melon worms?
Caterpillars that defoliate cucurbits and frequently scar the rind of the fruit. The signs to look for: Severe defoliation of leaves. Scraping and scarring on the surface of melons. Green caterpillars with two white lateral stripes.
What should I do about melon worms?
Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) or contact insecticides (Karate, Malathion). Always read the product label and observe the registered rate, re-entry period and pre-harvest interval before you apply any pesticide.
Which crops are affected by melon worms in Jamaica?
PlantArmor's crop guides list melon worms as a common problem on cucumber and watermelon.
Check it in the field
PlantArmor's reference library works offline, so you can compare what you are seeing against it standing in the plot, then log the spray you use along with its re-entry and pre-harvest intervals. Free to use.
This description and treatment come from the same reference library the PlantArmor app uses in the field. Pesticide registrations and permitted uses change — always read the current product label and observe the stated rate, re-entry period and pre-harvest interval.