Live in North GA. Planted my cukes by seed on 5.27.08. They are taking off greatly but this evening noticed a problem with two of my plants, pulled one up root and all (photos below). I am new to cuke growing and not sure what this is. The top of the plant is very healthy but as you can see ...wouldn't be for much longer.
I have mulched around the plants with a layer of wheat straw and a top layer of pine straw. I am thinking that I have the mulch too thick and causing too much moisture retention. Currently is about 4"-5" thick. I went ahead and pulled the mulch back from around each plants base to help air out a bit until I hear from the experts. Thanks so much for your help.
Oh yes, as a novice, I have seen the term planting cukes in "hills". Hmmm...please define a "hill"

[img]https://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm412/NGSP2008/101_7078.jpg[/img]
[img]https://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm412/NGSP2008/101_7077.jpg[/img]