Young zucchini on vegetable bed

How to Prevent Zucchini Stem Rot

Zucchini stem rot is a common problem that can affect your crop. The good news is that there are some simple steps you can take to prevent it.

Read on to learn more about zucchini stem rot and how to keep your plants healthy all season long.

Zucchini stem rot is caused by a fungal disease called Phytophthora capsici. This pathogen thrives in warm, wet conditions and can quickly spread from plant to plant. Zucchini stems are particularly vulnerable to this disease because they are often wet from morning dew or irrigation.

Zucchini plants.
Zucchini plants

Once the fungus has infected the stem, it will cause the plant to wilt and die.

There are several things you can do to prevent zucchini stem rot:

  1. Mulch your plants to help reduce moisture levels around the stems.
  2. Avoid overhead watering which can keep the leaves and stems wet for long periods of time. Water at the base of the plant instead.
  3. Remove any infected plants from your garden as soon as possible. This will help prevent the fungus from spreading to healthy plants.
  4. Practice crop rotation so that you are not planting zucchini in the same location year after year. This will help reduce the build-up of pathogens in the soil.
  5. Use fungicide treatments as a last resort if you have a serious infestation. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and only use products that are approved for use on edible crops.

Conclusion

By following these simple tips, you can preventing zucchini stem rot and enjoy a healthy crop all season long.