Powdery mildew, Plectosporium blight, and Phytophthora fruit rot are present in the late summer and early fall as winter squash and pumpkins mature.
Powdery Mildew
Michigan Cucurbit update | August 14, 2024
Cucurbit crops are being harvested, pumpkins are sizing as powdery mildew settles in across the state. Plectosporium blight can also be found. Stay vigilant against downy mildew and Phytophthora pathogens.
Watermelon Fungicide Guide | Clemson
Four foliar diseases reduce watermelon yields in South Carolina. Gummy stem blight and powdery mildew are the most common diseases in spring crops.
South Carolina Grower Update | June 24, 2024
Cucurbit growers should be on the lookout for gummy stem blight, downy mildew, powdery mildew, and fruit disease. Other issues with cucurbits right now include squash bugs and cucumber beetles.
South Carolina Grower Update | June 3, 2024
Tony Keinath, Extension Plant Pathologist reported that powdery mildew was found this week on watermelons at the Edisto Research and Education center.
Michigan Cucurbit update | May 22, 2024
Pumpkins planted with plastic mulch tend to grow faster. This may may result in longer powdery mildew foliage management to protect fruit from sunburn.
Florida watermelons face disease threats
Recent excessive rains in North Florida have impacted the region’s watermelon crop. Growers could soon face the potential buildup of diseases. Downy mildew, Powdery mildew, and Gummy stem blight have been reported in the last few weeks.
Powdery mildew observed in Florida watermelons
University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension confirmed the presence of Powdery mildew this week, though most fields have not yet shown signs of the disease. A microclimate of humidity promotes disease on the watermelon vines.
