Sorry for the poor focus - but you can see the color. Why did this cucumber turn yellow and die? Any cause for concern?
I've looked over the plants and everything seems ok, aside from a couple of these dead cukes. So I'm guessing that it's either one of those "first fruit don't always make it" issues, or possibly these didn't happen to get pollinated? Please let me know what you think.
Should I pick these off or just leave them there?
I have other cucumbers that are looking green and healthy so far. I hope they stay that way.
Ok, here's a better picture:
Probably didn't get pollinated.
You can hand-pollinate your cucumbers by finding one or more male blossoms when they have just opened, pick them off, and rub the insides onto female blossoms (the flowers with a cucumber behind it). You can also use a Q-tip. To be more accurate, you can pick off the petals of the flower to expose the "parts" which should have a light dusting of pollen on them.
I did a little of that with my squash and zucchini. Problem is that I don't get to go to my garden every day. But I think I'll try to get out there in the morning and do some hand pollinating with the cukes. The only bees I've seen have been a few of those little tiny ones, so they probably don't get around to each flower. Thanks guys.
My cucumber did the same thing. It may be the pollination- though I'm not sure. Mine had grown about an inch before it began turning yellow so I doubt that's the reason. Someone suggested irregular watering. I wish I knew too.
