Re: pumpkins DIGEST V1 #593

>I had a problem with the base of my vine rotting out just below the
>soil.  I used a large amount of composted cow manure and was wondering
>if it held too much moisture.  Has anyone else encountered this problem?
>
>
>
I have had this problem also. At first I thought it may be phytophora, but
I'm not so sure now because the secondary roots always survive and the
plant many times sets a pumpkin. I think it may be caused by a fungus that
gets into the stump through cracks that develop as the stump grows. It may
also be made worse by bugs that enter the stump through these cracks. I
really doubt the manure causes this problem by itself,  but if the
concentration of organic material is much above 10% then this could be a
favorable environment for disease. Also what type is your soil? High clay
soils really hold moisture and that combined with the manure may have
contributed to your problem.
	I am going to try to monitor the stumps as they develop this year
and apply captan paste if cracks are observed and some insect powder to
keep bugs out. Also natural dieback of leaves should be kept cleaned out as
them can begin to build up and lead to more problems as they rot.

Hope this helps a little....

John


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