Thanks in advance for any help on my sad young zucchini plants. Last year my zucchinis grew great, but this year I put them in a different location, used different seeds, and recycled old soil. Photos attached show the problem I can see: Leaves have tons of little spots on them and crinkled (disease?), tons of tiny black flies on/around the soil (fungus gnats?), not growing very well, leaning over as though weak stem/root. I had added chicken/steer manure to try to supplement the old soil but worry there was disease and gnats that were carried over. I also recently fed with compost & granular fertilizer. Hopefully these can still be rescued... Any suggestions for management? Neem? I am trying to water less and move to sunnier location with improved air circulation. Greatly appreciate any ideas and help!
Lookks like they need more direct sunlight ! They are full sun plants but will tolerate a bit of shade ! Do you see anything on the back of the leaves ? If not in direct sunlight,, powdery mildew is always a problem ! But even if thats it,, it doesn`t usually affect the harvest ! I have had it on mine ! To rid them of the fly problem,,and other pests, go to the pet center of your dollar store or Wal-mart or anywhere that carries pet supplies and get some dog or cat flea killer ! The pump spray type, MMis about a tablespoon with a pint of water and spray them well,, front and back of leaves ! That will take care of any pests ! You can use this spray weekly if needed ! Both are safe to use ! Pyrethrin in the cat flea killer is also organic ! Permethrin in the dog spray is the man made version ! Just check the ingredients before you buy !
