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Andover, CT

Hello,

My wife just started growing pumpkins this year. All seemed to be going well, but recently a number of the leaves near the main roots (center of the patch where she planted the seeds) have died off, and this problem seems to be working its way outward down the vines. We're wondering if this is normal, or if it's the beginning of the end. :o

Image:
http://www.rocketrylab.com/misc/photo.jpg

Thanks for any thoughts/suggestions!

Rob

7/24/2012 6:30:53 PM

Rhode Island

rob

its normal for a few leaves around the base to get brittle and old as the plant matures and fills out however, if this condition starts to carry down the main vine? you defibately have a disease issue to contend with.
if this is so? you will know more in a few days of observation
pap

7/25/2012 12:58:42 AM

Andover, CT

Thanks, Pap.

I should probably mention that this isn't something that just popped up, it's been gradual for a while now--matter of weeks.

Here's another pic that may better show the "problem:"
http://www.rocketrylab.com/misc/photo2.jpg

Question: If it isn't a disease, and just the normal life-cycle of the plant/leaves, should we be clipping these leaves/vines off as they die, or just leave them alone? Also, any recommendation on covering the vines in the center of the patch, that no longer have leaves, with dirt, or leave them alone?

Thanks again, we really appreciate the info!

Rob

7/25/2012 7:56:29 AM

Omaha, Ne.

I have this http://www.bigpumpkins.com/Diary/DiaryViewOne.asp?eid=184835

Don't know what or why but it looks kind of like yours. I used Infuse Systenic fungaicide (1.55% Propiconazole) It seem to be working it definitely slowed it a lot on my AG. But I don't think my field kin will survive, half the plant is gone in a week.

Thanks Glenn

7/25/2012 7:27:53 PM

Pataskala,OH

Have you sprayed insecticide this year? If not it is likely a squash vine borer, I see what appears to be frass on one of the pictures which means that it is almost certain a borer is in the vine.

7/25/2012 7:57:29 PM

Omaha, Ne.

I was wrong still spreading with every leaf that touches each other.

7/25/2012 10:02:34 PM

Rhode Island

rob

once the old leaves dry up we always cut them off (even) with the vine.that way they dont rot sitting ontop of another good vine or leaf.
a bare main thats visible is not a problem .in fact its an advantage. you can look down the main every day and spot ant potential problems.do nothing to cover the main. the sun is good for it.some water is good as well.
pap

7/26/2012 10:46:14 AM

Andover, CT

Well, looks like NP nailed it: Squash Vine Borer after all.

http://www.rocketrylab.com/misc/photo3.jpg

Wondering: What do you use for insecticide to protect against them?

8/1/2012 8:50:04 PM