Pumpkin caterpillars are voracious feeders and can cause significant damage to crops. They feed on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of their host plants. On leaves, they scrape away the chlorophyll, leaving behind white or transparent patches. On fruits, they tunnel into the flesh, creating holes and blemishes. If you find pumpkin caterpillars on your plants, there are a number of things you can do to control them. You can hand pick them off and drop them into a bucket of soapy water. You can also use insecticidal soap or Bacillus Thuringiensis (Bt), a biological insecticide that is safe for humans and other animals.
- Type of Infestation: Pest
- Common Name: Pumpkin Caterpillar
- Causal Organism: Diaphania indica
- Affected Parts Of the plant: Leaves, Flowers and Fruits
Identification:
- Color: Typically bright green, although some species might have brown or yellow hues.
- Length: Up to 2 inches (5 cm) when fully grown.
- Shape: Elongated and cylindrical, with tapered ends
- Surface: Smooth and hairless
Environmental favorable factors for pests/Diseases:
- Temperature: Pumpkin caterpillars are most active and develop fastest in warm weather, typically between 70-86°F (21-30°C).
- Humidity: Higher humidity levels tend to favor pumpkin caterpillar survival and development. This is because they lose less water through their skin in humid environments.
Symptoms of Pest/Disease:
On leaves:
- Small holes or ragged edges
- Webbing and folding
- Yellowing and wilting
On flowers:
- Holes or ragged edges
- Wilting or dropping
On fruits:
- Holes or tunnels
- Stunted growth and misshapen fruits
- Frass (caterpillar droppings) around entry points
Measures to control Pests/Diseases:
| Products | Technical Names | Dosages |
| VASISHTA | Thiamethoxam 1% + Chlorantraniliprole 0.5% GR | 2400 gm/acre |
| Fantastic | Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% w/w GR | 4-7.5 Kg/acre |
| Emathio | Emamectin benzoate 3 % thiamethoxam 12 % SG | 125-150 gm per Acre |
| EMA5 | Emamectin benzoate 5 % SG | 80-100 grams per Acre |
