Pumpkins are very popular in the home garden. Despite good care and proper cultivation, it can happen that the pumpkin does not develop splendidly. The pumpkins may turn brown and fall off.
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The reasons
Pumpkins (Cucurbita) are considered plants that require little care. The various cultivated species thrive and guarantee a rich harvest. If the fruit falls off and turns brown over time, there are various reasons for this.
Powdery mildew (Erysiphe cichoracearum)
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease. The fungus attaches itself to the top of the leaves of the plant. There it penetrates deep into the individual cells. In the early stages, powdery mildew can be recognized by a white mycelium. Over time, the braids turn brown. The spots get progressively larger as the leaves dry out. The gourds fall off in the final stages of the disease.
Downy mildew (Hyaloperonospora parasitica)
Downy mildew is a pathogen that often affects pumpkin plants during the cultivation phase. The spores spread to the plant from old plant remains in the soil. The fungus develops magnificently during alternating dry and wet periods. First, yellow to brown spots form on the plant. Later, the leaves will become more discolored and wither. If you do not take appropriate measures in a timely manner, the entire plant will be affected. In order to prevent the fungal disease downy mildew, we recommend planting at large intervals. Moisture favors the growth of fungi.
Japanese hawk (Popillia japonica)
The Japanese beetle is an Asian pest that poses a threat to native crops. The pests live in damp meadows and feed mainly on roots. The adult beetles feed on the plants between May and August. The affected leaves turn brown and fall off.
humid climate
A humid environment is harmful to the Cucurbita. Mushrooms then form quickly. In addition, the plant does not absorb the nutrients properly. If you water the plant too much or incorrectly, the leaves may turn brown and the fruit may fall off.
lack of nutrients
The pumpkin is a heavily consuming plant. The nutrient requirement is high. If the plant develops too many leaves and fruits, an adequate supply of important nutrients can no longer be guaranteed. As a result, leaves change color and the fruit may fall off.
prevent diseases
Various diseases and pests can attack the plant. The squash fruits turn brown and fall off. With the right measures, it is possible to strengthen the plants and protect them from diseases. Regular removal of infested leaves is recommended. If pests have attacked the pumpkin plants, fungicides help to combat them effectively.
Fertilize pumpkin properly
A sufficient supply of important nutrients is the basis for a successful pumpkin harvest . With organic fertilizers such as garden compost, however, you can prevent damage to the pumpkin. The following fertilizers are suitable for the crop:
- nitrogen
- Potassium
- vegetable manure
- horse manure
Regular watering
Pumpkins don’t like humid climates, but they need water regularly. Dry soil prevents pumpkin plants from growing. When watering, focus directly on the roots. Damp leaves create an environment conducive to the development of diseases and pests.
pinch flowers
Blossoming out has a specific purpose. As the gourds grow and thrive on their own, numerous fruits will form on the plant. If you want a large pumpkin instead of lots of small fruits, you should max out the plant. When pinching, you help the plant focus on growing a few fruit specimens. In June, cut back the foliage and leave only two leaves per tendril. Gardeners should consider how many squashes they want and use up the remaining flowers, otherwise the fruit will fall off.
frequently asked Questions
The blazing sun in midsummer poses a danger to the Cucurbita. Sunburn causes rotten spots to form and the fruits become more susceptible. With a suitable sun protection you protect the fruits from damage.
Fruit that is not well developed should be removed from the plant. This ensures that the good fruits are better supplied with nutrients.
