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Nova Scotia

I have a stem split that runs the full length of my stem it stops right at the edge of my pumpkins flesh. can this be stopped from going into the flesh? Say by making a horrizontal slice just beyond split and just deeper than? Or is it better to leave well enough alone?

7/26/2009 7:15:29 AM

Keep all tension off that stem and keep it dry check it as often as possible.

Slice and dice only if it gets into the fruit and then only if it appears it will create a major problem.

7/26/2009 9:19:55 AM

Dummer Twp - Ontario

I had a bad stem split last year, 3 actually. check my diary from last year for pictures. I used a scalple type cutter to make length wise cuts in the stem to control where they go and give some relief to the stem, it worked and keep the split dry.

Kirk

7/26/2009 2:27:19 PM

Wilmington.Ma.

Keep it dry.

7/26/2009 8:48:37 PM

[email protected]

I've tried Captan & Benomyl over the years. Fair results with both when the split isn't severe. If it happens again I'm going to try sulfur. Some folks here swear by it.

7/26/2009 9:46:14 PM

Nova Scotia

thanks all. thankfully it's dry and so far not spreading

7/27/2009 6:18:28 AM

Ireland

Saw stem split beginning on my main plant this season, so I covered the area in medicated talcum powder, and wrapped the affected area in elasticised bandage, which allows the stem to grow, but under very controled circumstances.
This was nearly 10 day's back, and so far no problems, and most important no further sign of stem split

7/27/2009 11:23:20 AM

Bolton Mass

What causes the stem to split? I have a split in the main stem, too (so far it's not getting bigger, and the vine is still growing, 2 fruits set). Is it growing too fast, or wind, or critters....? I'm a first time grower, so any help is appreciated.

7/28/2009 10:54:47 PM

Nova Scotia

main cause is stem stress from preasurer build up from bad angle to vine or no vine slack. mine this year I don't know why

7/28/2009 11:50:06 PM