Why Do My Hands Itch And Are Stained Yellow After Handling Zucchini Leaves?

Question

My mother has noticed that her hand are stains yellow and itch really bad after messing with zucchini and squash leaves. The past few days I have noticed a white film over the zucchini and squash leaves and now on my new pumpkin leaves. The film doesn’t seem to come off when I rub it. I am not sure if it’s bad nor if she’s just having a reaction to the leaves. If you can give me any advice, it would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

That is a mixture of pollen and downy mildew. They are no harm to you, but downy mildew will be detrimental to the health of your plant.

The plant, itself, is covered in very small spines that will break off into your skin when you touch the leaves and stems. This will be what is causing irritation. I would advise wearing gloves when you touch these plants.

Here are some articles that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/downy-mildew.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/zucchini