Squash problems...

Me again!

I've also got some squash plants in my main plot which seem to be struggling a bit. I planted them out when they were at the 2-3 leaf stage (as recommended in various books) about a week or two ago. Since then they have struggled to grow and one or two lower leaves have turned yellow and floppy. Can't find any beasties in the soil.

When I planted them out, I put a small handful of pelleted manure in the hole as the seed packet suggested that lots of manure would be good (and I had no 'fresh' to hand). I wonder if this is causing the problem, or that it's simply a case of transplant shock (I did inadvertently damage some roots on one plant ) or weather (it's been cold here lately - not today though!).

Should I give them some multi-purpose feed? (I have one that's NPK 4:2:4) Or would this compound the problem?

If the worst comes to the worst and they die, is it too late to seed new squash plants?

Paddy

 

I have the same problem with my pumpkins, mini pumpkins and butternut squash! I am hoping regular feeding and watering will improve them!

 

My squashes have hardly grown at all since we planted them. Then yesterday, because I was just too knackered to water the garden, I set the sprinkler up to water the spuds and squashes. I forgot to turn it off so it watered for about two hours.

I went out this morning on a brief inspection of the grounds (see what I did there? Making myself sound all posh! Alas.. I'm not!) and BOOM!! Squashes have doubled in size! Could it be that they really need lots of water? I'm wondering if I should keep letting the sprinkler do its magic.

 

If the pelleted manure was in direct contact with the roots of a smallish plant, it would not be good. They do take a while to establish and are best left to do that before feeding, I hope they will be alright, good luck.