Q.Mold from Zucchini Plants Last Year
Last year I grew zucchini – they did really well but the plants got mold on them. I never cleaned the plant debris up in the raised bed. Now I’m wondering how much trouble I’ve caused due to this. What kind of problems will I face and what can I do to fix it?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
It was likely powdery mildew that you got on the zucchinis. They are very susceptible to this fungus. Yes, it is still likely in the soil if you did not clean it up and will likely return if you do not take some preventative measures. First, plant your zucchini a little further apart. Fungus does not do as well when there is good air flow between the plants. Second, treat the area with a fungicide. This will help kill the spores before they can develop on the plants. Third, water from below and not from above. Damp leaves invite fungus and molds to develop on the leaves.