I think Ive killed the squash I was given

[Davidfromcheshire]

I was given a nice 5 inch high squash plant a couple of weeks ago and I think Ive managed to kill it already!!!

I planted it under netting and watered it eveyday (middle of the day) Leaves went brown and now it looks on its last legs.

Too much water??

[rustylady]

No David, not too much water.

You've said it yourself - you watered in the middle of the day, and presumably over the whole plant.

The way to plant any plant, squash included, is to dig a hole slightly bigger than the rootball of the plant. Fill this with water, let it drain. Put the plant in the hole and fill with water again. Let this soak away and then firm the plant in and cover the rootball with loose soil.

For thirsty plants like squash, cut the bottom off a plastic litre size pop bottle and sink it in the ground next to the plant. From then on water only into the bottle. This will get the water to the roots where it is needed instead of all over the leaves where it will do more harm than good.

By the way, why have you planted your squash under netting?

[Two_Sheds]

5 inch high squash plant

Was it hardened off?

Leaves went brown

Crispy brown, or soggy brown?

why have you planted your squash under netting?

Yeah, no need. Birds don't attack squashes, just brassicas and sometimes peas

[Davidfromcheshire]

Thanks to both of you, great advice. Brown and crispy to answer your question. No idea why I planted under netting ha

[Two_Sheds]

Brown and crispy to answer your question.

It's not overwatering then.

You haven't got an ants' nest under it? (probably not, if you're watering every day).


Was it hardened off before you planted it?