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The main stem now has a huge rotting hole near root and pumpkin has not gained over past week. What do i do now? Leave it still attached as long as possible or detach. As 1st time grower I dont know if it loses weight or maintains as the vine dies. Please help. thanks

2/22/2010 7:03:11 PM

Pumpkintown, SC

Is the rotting hole on the stem of the fruit or the main vine near the root ball?

2/22/2010 7:51:20 PM

it is on the main vine near the root ball. the plant is actually growing new leaves

2/22/2010 10:37:41 PM

Pumpkintown, SC

You will most likely be given numerous possible solutions. here's mine:
1) Leave the fruit alone. As long as the rot is not close to the fruit, unless there are other unseen problems, your fruit should continue to grow from existing "leaf axis roots". Also, if the main vine can be saved, growth should restart through the main.
As far as the rot;
2) using a sharp blade (like an Exacto-blade) cut out and remove any rot and/or suspected rot from infected area. Dust with Captan(or similar fungicide) and then put and keep a fan on the area. Keep the wound dry!
Your wound should dry and basically scare over and the vine should become "productive" again. Good luck. Let us know how it goes, BF

2/25/2010 12:34:35 AM

many thanks. will let you know how we get on

2/25/2010 8:46:23 PM