Kate Everts, Vegetable Pathologist, University of Delaware and University of Maryland; keverts@umd.edu
Cucurbit downy mildew was confirmed in Dorchester and Caroline counties in Maryland on June 12. Symptoms first appeared on June 8. This downy mildew occurrence is one month earlier than any occurrence in recent years. Growers should scout aggressively for this disease on cucumber and other cucurbits. This disease is favored by cool, humid weather including cool dewy nights. Weather during June 12-14 is forecast to be conducive to further spread. Tank-mix Ranman or Previcur Flex with a protectant fungicide and alternate sprays with a material with a different mode of action. Be careful not to rely on one fungicide class. Use excellent resistance management practices to avoid allowing the pathogen to develop resistance and to improve the efficacy of your fungicide management program. Presidio, which was commonly used in previous years, was not as effective as expected in 2011 University trials.
Downy mildew on the lower surface of a cucumber leaf. Notice the angular, water soaked lesions on this newly infected leaf. (Image courtesy of Bugwood and Gerald Holmes)
Consult the Commercial Vegetable Production Recommendations for further information on resistance management and available fungicides (in Maryland, Extension Bulletin 236 and in Delaware, Extension Bulletin 137). Because downy mildew has only been found on cucumber, targeted sprays on other cucurbits crops such as pumpkin, squash, watermelon, etc. are not necessary, at this time. Instead scout these crops aggressively and continue to apply a broad-spectrum spray program.