There are three major pests that need to be controlled to produce a successful pumpkin crop:

Weeds can prevent bees from pollinating flowers. They also serve as hosts for insects which can spread harmful viruses

Insects can introduce viruses to a field. These infestations lead to restriction of size, greening and lumpiness of the pumpkin fruit.

Diseases can jeopardize your pumpkin crop. Phytophthora Blight, Black Rot, Mosaic Viruses and Powdery Mildew are just some of the major diseases that can do you harm.

Each of these pests can be controlled by numerous methods including: good crop rotation, soil drainage, varietal resistance, proper planting time, seeding rate, and regular use of pesticides.