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Why Are My Squash Plants Blooming But Not Producing?
Why Are My Squash Plants Blooming But Not Producing?. Squash is one of the oldest domesticated crops. It grows from vines that trail along the ground, with plants producing both male and female flowers. Pollination, either by insects or humans, is necessary to produce fruit. Without pollination, flowers simply drop and die.
Squash is one of the oldest domesticated crops. It grows from vines that trail along the ground, with plants producing both male and female flowers. Pollination, either by insects or humans, is necessary to produce fruit. Without pollination, flowers simply drop and die.
Flower Characteristics
Flowers of plants in the Cucurbita genus are trumpet-shaped and generally yellow in color. Females, which are borne singly, have tiny squashes, or ovaries, at their bases. Male flowers, which outnumber females, are borne in clusters. If fruit set is not happening, pollination is probably not taking place.
Aiding Pollination
Help the pollination process by growing plants near other flowering species that attract insects, especially bees. Avoid spraying or dusting with pesticides in the morning and early afternoon when pollinators are most active. If necessary, hand pollinate with a cotton swab or small paintbrush.
Other Causes
Though lack of pollination is the most likely reason for a lack of fruit, tiny parasitic worms called nematodes may be the problem. To find out, check roots for galls, which are small, rounded growths. Nematodes can be treated with specific pesticides or by installing new plants in different garden areas.
