What is snapping the flowers off my zucchini plants? We have a 2 ft. fence around it.
Hardiness Zone: 5a
By Phyllis from Lodi, WI
Most likely squirrels. Don't rule out snails and slugs. They are working on my tomatoes here. Got ORTHO Slug and Snail stuff to use. The S & S are in the larvea stage, and don't look like the Aug/Sept shape of S & S.
If you are rural where the gofers are, they could be doing it too. Had them all, finally got the fencing up to keep the rabbits out.
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I have two zucchini plants planted in a single 5 gallon pot. They seem healthy overall and I even harvested one fruit this season. But all remaining fruit buds that are forming on the plants are turning yellow, becoming limp and falling off even before they blossom (flowers don't open).
Most issues with zucchini plants posted online point to poor pollination or blossom end rot due to calcium deficiency. However these cannot be reasons here since the fruit buds are falling off even before the flowers open and can be pollinated! What could be the problem here? They are being watered and fertilized regularly. Am seeing the roots being exposed slightly and the plants tilting out of the pot now. Do they need a bigger pot? Would greatly appreciate any advice. Thank you!
I would say maybe only one plant to a 5 gallon pot but since your plants are already this large, they may not survive transplanting.
Generally, roots are tender and easily broken.
Info from one site:
"Plant zucchini at least two feet (60cm) apart. Bear in mind that many varieties need more space than this, so check the exact requirements of what youre growing."
www.growveg.com/
If you want professional advice about how to handle this problem, contact your local Extension Service Office and they will tell you exactly how to handle this problem.
www.gardeningknowhow.com/
What kind of zucchini do you have?
The most important thing when growing zucchini in containers is choosing the right varieties to grow, since some zucchini grow much larger than others. The description should have the word 'bush' or 'patio'.
A container that is around 12 inches deep and at least 24" across should be sufficient. However, zucchini needs plenty of nutrients to grow and produce well. This means that the larger the container you can provide, the better.
The 5 Gallon pot usually measures 11 5/8" - 14" x 9 1/2" - 10.2". Your container is small even for a single plant. If you want to grow more than one zucchini plant, a half-barrel or other large reclaimed receptacle can be ideal. In half a 55 gallon barrel, you could place three-four zucchini plants. I think you should try replanting the plants.
Terracotta pots might not be the best choice for thirsty plants like zucchini because they dry out so quickly.
Check if the pot has drainage holes in the bottom. Though zucchini do like plenty of moisture, they do not like to be waterlogged, the stems can rot at the base.
DIY potting mix: 1/3 loam (from garden), 1/3 homemade compost, and 1/3 leaf mold (made from fall leaves).
Is there enough light?
At least six hours of sunshine a day is required for zucchini. Make sure the fruits get the sunshine they need to continue to ripen and grow. Get rid of the odd leaf to let in the light, or to improve air flow.
Is there enough water?
You should check the top 2 inches of soil if they feel dry to the touch, water deeply, allowing water to flow out of the base of the container. Then allow the top of the soil to dry before you water again.
Water the soil, not the leaves.
Add a mulch around your zucchini.
Good plants to grow in containers nearby: radishes, nasturtiums, borage, and a wide range of other flowers and aromatic herbs.
Feed zucchini with a good quality organic feed at least one a month over the growing season.
www.ruralsprout.com/
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The blossoms on my zucchini form great and look healthy, but look like they have been cut off just below the blossom during the night.
