Cucumber and Melon Vines Yellowing - Knowledgebase Question

East Islip, NY
Avatar for GARDEN17
Question by GARDEN17
August 11, 1998
Why are my cukes turning yellow on the vine and now some of the leaves also? Too much water? How often should I water? Also, my canteloupes are turning yellow and have small white spots on them. What did I do wrong?


Image
Answer from NGA
August 11, 1998
Both cucumber and melon vines grow best in a rich soil well amended with ample organic matter. Since the cucumbers and melons consist primarily of water, they also need a consistently moist (but not soggy) soil. A mulch will help with this, as will the old rule of about an inch of water a week from either the gardener or the sky. If in doubt, stick your finger into the soil and see if it is dry or not.

As far as the yellowing, both of these vines are subject to a number of foliar problems including those caused by insects and disease. I can't tell which one it is based on your description, but you may be able to tell what is causing the problem by comparing your plants with the the descriptions and photos in these two websites.

http://www.ext.nodak.edu/extpu...

http://www.ianr.unl.edu/pubs/p...

Another option would be to take a sample to your County Extension agent for a positive identification and suggested controls, if any. Their phone number in Suffolk County is 727-7850.

Good luck with your plants!

You must be signed in before you can post questions or answers. Click here to join!

« Return to the Garden Knowledgebase Homepage

Member Login:

( No account? Join now! )

Today's site banner is by IrisLilli and is called "Purple Crocus Mix"

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.