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Squash Blossom Drop: Pollination and Water Balance

Two Causes, Same Symptoms

Wilted/rotted blossoms + few fruit = either poor pollination or overwatering.

Pollination Fix

Hand-pollinate daily (male → female).
Plant bee flowers: sunflowers, zinnias, cosmos.
No pesticides during bloom.

Water Fix

1.5"/week deep, not daily.
Mulch heavily (straw).
Check drainage—amend clay with compost.

Fertilizer & Soil

Low N, high P (10-20-10) every 2 weeks.
Fall: massive organic matter incorporation.

Outlook

Correct both, and fruit set improves within days.

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