| Our pumpkin vines had blossoms, but did not set fruit. Is it possible that we had all male blossoms? |
| Squash and pumpkin vines have both male and female blossoms. Usually the first flowers to form are male, and a few days later female flowers open. Insects, mainly bees, need to visit each flower to transfer pollen before a fruit is formed. Rather than having just one type of blossom, it's more likely that there was insufficient insect activity when the flowers were open - without pollination, there can be no fruit. Bee activity can be interrupted by cold weather, or recent pesticide use. It's important not to spray insecticides around flowers when bees are active. Try attracting bees to your garden by having several things in bloom during most of the season. Or you can hand-pollinate--transfer pollen from the male flowers to the females with a small paintbrush. Better luck next year! |
