Anthracnose of Cucurbits

Abstract

Anthracnose, caused by the fungus Colletotrichum lagenarium, is a destructive disease of cucurbits occurring during warm and moist seasons. Significant damage can occur to cucumber, muskmelon, and watermelon unless resistant varieties are grown. Squash and pumpkins are rarely, if ever, infected by the pathogen. This disease is most common in the southern, mid-Atlantic, and midwestern states, but can occur in New York if temperatures are at or above normal and frequent rains occur during the summer to promote disease development and spread.