David Owens, Extension Entomologist, owensd@udel.edu
Watermelon
Be sure to check watermelons coming out of the greenhouse or high tunnel for aphids and for spider mites. Both are much easier to deal with before transplantation into a field. Begin also scouting for cucumber beetle.
Spider Mites
Any transplant produced in an enclosed structure or any crop planted adjacent to strawberry is at risk for early season spider mite. If early spider mite activity is detected and mite populations are increasing, a miticide may be desired. Avoid pyrethroid application. If possible, avoid neonicotinoid application. Both groups of insecticide are known to favor spider mites.