Gourd rot causes and remedies

I have two gourd plants. They are growing really well. In my gourd plants, lots of male flowers and female flowers have appeared. But I noticed that the baby gourds are not sustaining. Gourd rot causes this. Then I did something and the feedback is good.

Let’s talk about why gourd rot occurs:

1/ Lack of pollination: Most of the time, this pollination is done by bees or birds. But if this is missed, then we have to do artificial pollination.

2/ Fungal Infestation: Pathogens such as fungi (like Fusarium, Alternaria, and Botrytis) and bacteria can infect gourds, leading to rot. These microorganisms thrive in warm, humid conditions, making gourds susceptible to infection during periods of high moisture.

3/ Flea infestation: It’s called White Flea. Remedies: Tarzan Pheromone Trap or Yellow Board.

4/ Excessive yield on the tree: If there is excessive yield on the tree, the tree sheds fruits. Remedies: Balanced application of calcium, boron, and NPKs to increase plant-bearing capacity.

5/ Sufficient amount of water and sunlight should be provided to the plants.

6/ Poor Air Circulation: Insufficient air circulation around gourds, especially when they are densely packed or grown in humid environments, can create conditions favorable for fungal and bacterial growth.

Remedies for Gourd Rot:

1/ The arrived gourd flowers should be cut and kept clean.

2/ Natural care should be done after seven days. 

For example: Water soaked in neem oil, organic manure, banana peel, or onion peel.

3/ Cultural Practices:

• Crop Rotation: Rotate gourd crops with unrelated plants to reduce the buildup of pathogens in the soil.
• Proper Spacing: Ensure adequate spacing between plants to promote air circulation and reduce humidity around the gourds.
• Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of plants to regulate soil moisture and prevent soil-borne pathogens from splashing onto the fruit.

4/ Optimal Irrigation:

• Water gourds at the base of the plant to minimize moisture on the foliage and fruit.
• Avoid overhead irrigation, especially during periods of high humidity, to reduce the risk of fungal infections.

5/ Harvesting Techniques:

• Harvest gourds when they reach maturity but are still firm. Avoid waiting until they become overly ripe, as they are more susceptible to rot.
• Handle gourds carefully during harvesting and transportation to minimize bruising and damage.

6/ Sanitation:

• Remove and discard any infected or rotting gourds promptly to prevent the spread of pathogens to healthy fruit.
• Clean tools, containers, and equipment regularly to prevent the transmission of pathogens between plants.

7/ Fungicides and Biological Control:

• Apply fungicides according to label instructions to manage fungal infections. Organic options like copper-based fungicides may be preferred for those practicing organic gardening.
• Consider using biological control methods such as beneficial microbes or predatory insects to suppress pathogen populations.

8/ Improving Drainage:

• Ensure proper soil drainage by amending heavy soils with organic matter such as compost.
• Avoid planting gourds in low-lying areas prone to waterlogging.

By implementing these preventive measures and appropriate remedies, gardeners can effectively manage gourd rot and ensure a healthy harvest of gourds. Regular monitoring of plants for signs of disease and prompt action are key to minimizing the impact of gourd rot on crop yield and quality.”