My summer squash plants are fading. Is the ants I see on them or are they a sign of another pest?
Answers:
Ants are usually not a damaging pest, in contrary they help pollinate, if you have broken or rotting squash...they are attracted to it. Get rid of all sickly squash first. I would have to guess your problem is too much water and roots have begun to decay. There is a remedy but it may sound silly.Trim off the bad leafs and squash..as much as possible, down-size your plant. This means you want more roots then plant.Having more roots than the plant gives it more energy to work on getting better. It is still early in the season and you can recover. Let your soil dry, for about a week depending on the temp. where you live. If it is extremely hot, use your discretion. Once they have dried to some degree water them with a clear soda...not a diet
( depends on the size of plant but approx. one can per ). This sounds very silly but it works. The carbonation helps to provide oxygen. There are products on the market just for this but soda works great. Wait a day or too after then begin with your normal watering. Being careful not to over-do.Hang in there it is possible to save your plants.
Good luck and God Bless....Grandma
Other answers:
the ants are probably feeding on the actual squash plant.
the ants are probably feeding on the actual squash plant.
If you have ants you likely have aphids. The ants "farm" them by biting off their wings so they can harvest the sugary goo they leave behind.
If you get rid of the aphids you will get rid of the ants.