Bye Bye Squash Bugs

So I forgot to plant nasturtiums in my squash beds this year.  Squash bugs took advantage of my error and are now infecting my delicate baby squash plants.  Time to take control...

DE - Diatomaceous Earth. Insect's nemesis. It will destroy even the good bugs so I don't recommend using it broadly in gardening efforts. It is something to not apply in the wind as it acts like fiber glass on the lungs if breathed in and can create damage. Food grade is the more safe option to use.

Yes, this garden guardian came out today. DE will kill beneficial nematodes. I don't want that. I have learned to grow squash in planters to prevent damage to in ground or raised bed soil. The balance for a healthy garden is my goal.  But squash bugs!

They and the rodents tend to be the bane of my gardening adventures.  This morning a squash bug was walking boldly on the plant.  A few leaves were yellow showing they are infected from these bugs. Not this year!  We want our zucchini. Time for a rescue!

Out came the DE. There is no light sprinkling it on the plant.  Nope.  I covered it thickly with DE.  Bye bye squash bugs.  Not this year! Sorry squash plant that I neglected to get this out and protect you in time.

Other organic methods that work include using duct tape to remove eggs from the leaves and soap water to wash them. But nasturtiums.  They are the best defender.  Definitely not forgetting them next year.