Throughout the spring and summer of 2020, Evan Wilson, agriculture agent for
Cabell and Wayne counties, has been participating in a monitoring trial for cucurbit
downy mildew (CDM.) For many years, CDM was controlled through resistant cultivars
but since 2005, there has been a nearly 40% crop loss throughout the region. Last
summer, Wilson was fortunate to partner with several growers in two counties but
with the uncertainty of COVID-19 guidelines, this year's plot was planted at the
agents' home. Varieties in this years trial include: Butterscotch butternut squash,
Halona cantaloupes, pollinizer watermelon, silver slicer cucumbers, table queen
acorn squash and thunder kabocha squash.
As summer progresses, Wilson will update findings and share new information
pertaining to CDM.
Seeds started on April 27.
Seeds began to germinate on May 2.
Plants were transplanted on June 2.
With a 60 day maturity, the silver slicers were approaching harvest very quickly.
One of the several varieties of squash.
Three cucumbers harvested at 63 days post-planting.
A young pollenizer Watermelon prior to maturity. Due to excess rain, many
watermelons split from the moisture.
A Thunder Kabocha squash growing on the vine. These make a nice dessert in the chocolate
chip kabocha bars, which the Wayne Office enjoyed this fall.
Table Queen Acorn Squash: These grew and produced nice squash in the garden. We are
currently waiting to hear back from people that took these home to enjoy.
Just 4 of the 10 cantaloupes harvested. The deer helped themselves to many before
I could pick them.
40 pounds of Thunder Acorn Squash washed and ready for eating. Once the tough skin
was removed, the orange flesh was pleasant roasted with a brown sugar and maple
syrup glaze.
If you are interested in participating in future agriculture research trials, please
contact us at
304-272-6839.
