Can I cut squash plants back?

Discussion in 'Fruit and Veg Gardening' started by Donna S, Jul 3, 2013.

  1. Donna S

    Donna S Hardy Maple

    Joined:
    Feb 15, 2010
    Messages:
    3,319
    Likes Received:
    2,571
    Location:
    Virginia
    My zucchini and summer squash plants are so big I can't find or get to the squash. Is it ok to trim them back some?

    Thanks,
    Donna
     
    • Like Like x 1
  2. Loading...


  3. carolyn

    carolyn Strong Ash

    Joined:
    Apr 13, 2011
    Messages:
    9,332
    Likes Received:
    4,866
    I don't unless there is something damaged. I am leery to do so since it opens a huge wound for the plant. maybe try one plant to see what happens. I grow bush plants so they aren't vining all over the garden.
     
  4. Donna S

    Donna S Hardy Maple

    Joined:
    Feb 15, 2010
    Messages:
    3,319
    Likes Received:
    2,571
    Location:
    Virginia
    Thanks Carolyn.
     
  5. mart

    mart Strong Ash

    Joined:
    Mar 31, 2010
    Messages:
    5,582
    Likes Received:
    4,148
    Location:
    NE Texas
    I occssionally take off a few of the lower leaves with no problems, But it needs those top leaves so just one or two at a time from the bottom. Many times they die first anyway.
     
    • Like Like x 2



    Advertisement
  6. Growingpains

    Growingpains Young Pine

    Joined:
    Aug 13, 2008
    Messages:
    1,840
    Likes Received:
    1,513
    Location:
    Michigan
    As Mart said, just the very bottom leaves, or at least those that have turned yellow and dry.
     
  7. Donna S

    Donna S Hardy Maple

    Joined:
    Feb 15, 2010
    Messages:
    3,319
    Likes Received:
    2,571
    Location:
    Virginia
    If it ever stops raining I'll trim them up a little. Thanks for all your help.
     
  8. donna in nc

    donna in nc In Flower

    Joined:
    Feb 6, 2012
    Messages:
    863
    Likes Received:
    400
    Location:
    hudson nc
    mine are getting some kind of mold all over the leaves our humidity has been horrible and rain rain rain
     
  9. mart

    mart Strong Ash

    Joined:
    Mar 31, 2010
    Messages:
    5,582
    Likes Received:
    4,148
    Location:
    NE Texas
    Use the bug spray I make and use. Large spray bottle, dog or cat flea spray or shampoo (about an ounce), although the shampoo is not as strong, and a squirt of betadine. Betadine is antifungal,and the flea spray takes care of bugs. It will not correct the mold/mildew problem but may keep it from getting worse. It is good to spray the cut edge of those leaves when you cut them back.
     
    • Like Like x 1

Share This Page