| What causes a hole approximately 1/4" round by 1/2" long inside a cucumber with no apparent entry visible? |
| What you're describing sounds like hollow center. If so, it's either a boron or calcium deficiency. Hollow centers in cucumbers and melons and hollow stems in brassicas are common and are caused by low levels of these elements in the soil. Even if levels are adequate, fluctuating moisture conditions or excessive nitrogen fertilization can cause a deficiency to occur. Try adding compost or other organic matter to your soil to help it retain moisture, or add a layer of mulch over the top of the soi. When you water, apply it deeply enough to wet the entire root mass. The cukes are safe to eat, even with a hollow center. |
