Q&A – Why is the stem on my squash splitting?
Question:
My squash and zucchini plants are splitting in the stalks and some are even flattening out. I am concerned about bugs getting inside the plant and causing bacterial wilt and killing the plants. Any idea as to why this is happening and what to do?
Answer:
The splitting stem is not a problem. The plant will do fine with this. Retired UT Extension Agent Mike Dennison does notice a bigger problem on the plant. It looks like a squash vine borer has tunneled into the plant. This will likely kill the plant. Mike tells how to prevent the vine borer.
Related Videos:
Squash Vine Borer
Applying Insecticides to Prevent Squash Vine Borer
Related Resources
Squash vine borers
Squash Vine Borer
My squash and zucchini plants are splitting in the stalks and some are even flattening out. I am concerned about bugs getting inside the plant and causing bacterial wilt and killing the plants. Any idea as to why this is happening and what to do?
Answer:
The splitting stem is not a problem. The plant will do fine with this. Retired UT Extension Agent Mike Dennison does notice a bigger problem on the plant. It looks like a squash vine borer has tunneled into the plant. This will likely kill the plant. Mike tells how to prevent the vine borer.
Related Videos:
Squash Vine Borer
Applying Insecticides to Prevent Squash Vine Borer
Related Resources
Squash vine borers
Squash Vine Borer