The recent spell of very hot weather with at least 5 days in the mid to upper 90's have caused more problems for pumpkin growers. The intense heat and bright sunshine has damaged the surface of mature fruit. Pumpkins without irrigation and certain varieties seem more susceptible but all fruit can be affeected. If hot temperatures and bright sunshine persist, remove fruit to a location where you can provide adequate storage conditions. These include: cool air, good air circulation and dry conditions.

Early symptoms start off as small dark red patches on the surface. These areas are slightly sunken.

Mature fruit with sunscald starting to develop

Close up view of sun scald lesion on pumpkin fruit

Area enlarges and starts to soften

More: Page 2.

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Previously....

From August 13, 2002, How to Distinguish Between Symptoms of Squash Vine Borer versus Bacterial Wilt
From July 18, 2001,Powdery Mildew on Summer Squash
From September 21, 2000, Bird Damage and Fusarium Fruit on Pumpkins
From June 24, 2000, Soil Crusting
From August 18, 1999, Watermelon Mosaic Virus on Pumpkins
From July 13, 1999, Spider Mites on Pumpkin Leaves
From July 1, 1999,

Command Carryover Affects Tomatoes

Bacterial Wilt in Muskmelons

Drought Conditions

From June 9, 1999, Impatiens Necrotic Spot on Pepper Transplants
From: July 15, 1998, Phytophthora Blight on Tomatoes

From: July 8, 1998. Angular Leaf Spot on Pumpkin,
Buckeye Rot on Tomatoes (Phytophthora spp., including P. capsici),
Phytophthora Blight of Cucurbits

From June 25, 1998: Timber Rot on Tomatoes plus Hail Damage on Tomatoes and Sweet Corn.

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More: Page 2.