The first time we grew squash, it was a bit of an educational experience.

The plants flourished and took up half of the garden. However, as we waited excitedly for our first harvest, we ran into a bit of a hiccup. One morning, several of the plants were splayed out as though they hadn’t been watered in weeks.

We were shocked and quite dismayed. After a bit of research, it turns out we had squash vine borers. These pesky little insects are moths that lay their eggs at the base of plants, such as summer or winter squash and pumpkins.

When the eggs hatch, the larvae then bore into the stem of the plant to feed. This ends up blocking water flow to the rest of the plant. This explained why our squash plants looked as though we were in the midst of a severe drought.

If you are growing squash or pumpkin this year and your plants start looking unhappy, check the base of the plant for holes. The stem will start to look mushy or as though it is rotting. We saved our plants by carefully removing the larvae and mounding up the soil around the base of the plant.

Other issues that can affect the quality of your squash and the health of your plants are squash bugs. These little critters harm your plants by literally sucking the sap out of them. You can look for eggs on the underside of the leaves and dispose of them.

Also, watch the plants for signs of fungal or bacterial leaf spot.

If you are successful in battling the vine borers and squash bugs, summer or winter squash will be a healthy addition to your diet. These vegetables are high in Vitamins A and C and contain soluble fiber. They also possess anti-inflammatory components that “help to neutralize the free radicals which play a role in illness, pre-mature aging and heart disease.” And, the seeds are packed with protein.

For some interesting recipe ideas, check out this publication from the University of Illinois Extension. It includes items, such as squash cakes and stuffed squash blossoms. Yes, the squash flowers are edible.

Kelley Rawlsky has an M.S. in horticulture and is the director of Bringing People and Plants Together, an organization dedicated to bringing horticulture education and therapy to the community. For more information: PeopleAndPlantsTogether@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook.