Q.insects and ants on veggie vines
Beetles have eaten up my squash vines (trying to grow in large containers) – had some flowers but only one fruit – now gone. Have used several types of spray – too many to pick off by hand. Long cucumber vines (also in large container) have looked very healthy and have lots of blossoms – now covered in ants!! At wits’ end!! What can I do?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Neem oil is the most effective pesticide and is safe to use on all types of plants, including edible ones. Your cucumbers are likely affected by aphids, which secrete sweet honeydew. This is what attracts the ants, so really getting rid of the aphids will in turn get rid of the ants as well. Neem oil, again, will help with this. Here is additional information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/problems/pests/neem-oil-uses.htm
