Troubleshooting
Acorn squash problems — and how to fix them
Acorn squash (Cucurbita pepo) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Powdery mildew
Late-summer fungal disease; water at soil level.
Squash bugs
Pick eggs off undersides; row cover early in season.
Blossom-end rot
Inconsistent watering.
Splitting fruit
Drought followed by heavy rain.
No fruit set
Poor pollination; hand-pollinate.
Prevent acorn squash problems before they start
Most acorn squash issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common squash problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- Common acorn squash problems — our other guide for the same plant
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Acorn squash watering schedule
- Acorn squash light requirements
- Best soil mix for acorn squash
- Acorn squash temperature & humidity
- Full acorn squash care guide
Looking for acorn squash in general rather than its problems? Read the full acorn squash care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Acorn squash problems — FAQ
Why is my acorn squash powdery mildew?
Late-summer fungal disease; water at soil level.
Why is my acorn squash squash bugs?
Pick eggs off undersides; row cover early in season.
Why is my acorn squash blossom-end rot?
Inconsistent watering.
Why is my acorn squash splitting fruit?
Drought followed by heavy rain.
Why is my acorn squash no fruit set?
Poor pollination; hand-pollinate.