Downy mildew disease remains a major problem for Florida’s cucurbit farmers, according to the South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline.
The disease has flared up drastically over the past couple of weeks in multiple cucumber fields.
It is still active in squash and cucumbers in the southwest Florida area. Incidence and severity range from low to moderate. It is also still present in a few remaining watermelon fields.
Downy mildew is also present in cucumbers in the Manatee Ruskin area and in cucurbits in the Homestead area.
Management options are achieved primarily with resistant varieties and/or fungicide spray programs. Fungicide sprays are recommended for all cucurbit crops.
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