I have recently been having a bit of a problem with my cucumbers. I currently have 6 plants in 2 separate pots (one terra cotta and one plastic), of two different varieties of cucumbers (which I have forgotten!). The plants are growing up a homemade "trellis" made of untreated wood against a fence. The plants have done very well so far this season, growing quickly, flowering and producing a few fruits. However, in the past week or so, I have noticed that the leaves at the bottom of the vines have begun to get spotted, wilt and die.
A bit of history: We have had a hot (multiple days of over 90) and dry summer so far. I have kept the plants well watered, however. I also, just a week ago, added a layer of organic cedar mulch to the pots to retain moisture. I am not sure if this is an over-watering (or "wet feet" problem) - I had a house-sitter last year kill many of my cukes by over-watering them for 2 weeks - or something else, like disease, etc...
I have attached links to pics below. Please let me know if any additional information would be helpful.
Any ideas and/or suggestions would be much appreciated.
Thank you,
Tom
https://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn132/tcy1227/utf-8BSU1HMDAwODktMjAxMDA3MDEtMTE0M.jpg
https://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn132/tcy1227/utf-8BSU1HMDAwOTAtMjAxMDA3MDEtMTE0M.jpg
https://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn132/tcy1227/utf-8BSU1HMDAwOTQtMjAxMDA3MDEtMTIyM.jpg
https://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn132/tcy1227/utf-8BSU1HMDAwOTMtMjAxMDA3MDEtMTIyM.jpg
https://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn132/tcy1227/utf-8BSU1HMDAwOTItMjAxMDA3MDEtMTIyM.jpg
https://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn132/tcy1227/utf-8BSU1HMDAwOTEtMjAxMDA3MDEtMTE0M.jpg
You would think if it were over watering, the basil would also be unhappy.