Zucchini and Summer Squash - Ask Extension
I am having problems with both my zucchini and summer squash. The fruits are having the tips begin to rot and generally have an unhealthy appearance,...
Knowledgebase
Zucchini and Summer Squash #874563
Asked June 25, 2024, 1:50 AM EDT
I am having problems with both my zucchini and summer squash. The fruits are having the tips begin to rot and generally have an unhealthy appearance, most are thin and do not begin to fill out, and then the tips begin to rot.
Also, I have some sort of discoloration on the leaves of my summer squash, it appears to be whiteish in color but does not wash or wipe off. Is this normal or some sort of fungus.
I garden organically and do not use any pesticides. The plants are in grow bags and the soil is a combination of topsoil, coco-core, perlite, and some worm castings. I also added some baked, ground up eggshells and organic fertilizer (5-4-2).
I have them on an automatic watering system. The zucchini is watered starting at 8:00AM for an hour, the summer squash starts at 10:00AM, also for an hour. I use bubbler heads in each grow bag.
Matanuska-Susitna County Alaska
Expert Response
Based on your description and the information on watering, it sounds like your plants are suffering from root rot and blossom end rot, likely induced from overwatering. Please see this link - https://pender.ces.ncsu.edu/2020/03/why-are-my-squash-rotting/
Squash have very tender roots and should be watered lightly only once or twice a week. I would switch your watering regime and not water again until the soil is staring to lose moisture in the middle and bottom of the grow bag. Squash will let you know they need water by lightly starting to droop and show signs of initial wilt if they get too dry. Severe overwatering (Root rot) can also cause severe wilting and the leaves and stems will turn white. So, it is a balancing act keeping it moist but not too dry and especially not too wet. I have used grow bags in the past and they do tend to keep soil quite most for an extended period.
If you want to send me photos of your plants so I can verify your plant symptoms, or if you have more questions, please feel free to email me directly at <personal data hidden>
Squash have very tender roots and should be watered lightly only once or twice a week. I would switch your watering regime and not water again until the soil is staring to lose moisture in the middle and bottom of the grow bag. Squash will let you know they need water by lightly starting to droop and show signs of initial wilt if they get too dry. Severe overwatering (Root rot) can also cause severe wilting and the leaves and stems will turn white. So, it is a balancing act keeping it moist but not too dry and especially not too wet. I have used grow bags in the past and they do tend to keep soil quite most for an extended period.
If you want to send me photos of your plants so I can verify your plant symptoms, or if you have more questions, please feel free to email me directly at <personal data hidden>
