Damage Symptoms

A wet, soft rot develops rapidly on the fruit. The fruit is frequently covered with a white fluffy fungal growth during wet weather.


Conditions for Development

Cottony Leak occurs on most cucurbit crops. It occurs primarily on fruit that is in contact with the soil and is most likely to develop during periods of high soil moisture.


Control

Crop management practices that reduce soil moisture (raised beds), fruit injury, or prevent soil contact with the soil (plastic mulches or trellising) are recommended. Fungicidal sprays are not particularly effective but may in some instances reduce fruit losses.