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Midwest

I would like to ask a question of you experienced growers. I am growing a Pukos-Beachy 04 and it's an excellent grower. But, ever since I planted it, the leaves display what looks like a genetic problem. The outer leaf edge appears to have been eaten by some insect, similar to what a snail does. But, the malformed edge appears on the same side of each leaf. This wierd edge curves into the main center stem all the way to the stem. It appears that the left side of each leaf is seperated at the middle from the right side. The new leaves also appear like that. It started with the 4th true leaf. Now, there's 7 or eight leaves. I think I caused this though. I make a mistake with the seed and maybe there's a connection to this problem. I filed the edge of the seed too much which damaged the cotyledon slightly. I didn't think this would affect the growth of the plant and I'm wondering if I am mistaken. The plant didn't exhibit the ill affects until recently. It was the first to germinate and is the fastest grower of 4 seeds. At this point, should I be concerned about this plant producing malformed fruit? Can I do anything? Last year I burnt the leaves with copper dust. I just don't want to lose this plant.

Thanks and best of growing to you all!
Greg

6/21/2005 12:04:59 AM

C N Y

i do not think the seed-filing has anything to do with this, as it would only affect the seed-leaves once the seed had
sprouted. i wonder if some kind of caterpillar that
likes to go the same directon every time he eats could be at fault. lol, but not lol. more like a "hmmmph!"
if at all possible, throw us a picture of the damage, and good luck with the resulting recommendations.
and, by all means, jumble-up the time of day when you check your plant(s)....your culprit could be there. eric

6/21/2005 6:07:30 PM

Cincinnati,OH

Sometimes I'll get a leaf malformed on 1 side but never 4 in a row all on the same side. Maybe 1 side of your plant is in the shade longer than the other and the bug likes shade.

6/21/2005 7:53:10 PM

Midwest

Thanks Eric and Ron. That's true what you said about that side being in shade more than the other. I'll try that surprise tactic! Maybe I'll catch me an infiltrator! HOPE SO!... Anyway, I'll post a picture in my diary asap.

6/22/2005 1:45:23 PM