Pumpkins are sizing and showing color as powdery mildew settles in across the state. Plectosporium blight can also be found. The best approach to stem health in pumpkins is to limit powdery mildew on the foliage as much as possible.
Phytophthora fruit rot often reaches a peak in the late summer and early fall as winter squash and pumpkins mature. For pumpkins growing in Phytophthora-infested parcels, it may be helpful to harvest early and remove the fruit from the field and store in a dry location.