When cucumbers turn yellow leaves: the possible causes and what you can do

Cucumbers have yellow leaves hanging: incorrect watering

If the cucumbers are not justget yellow leaves, but also leave them hanging, then it is probably a casting error. In spring it is sufficient to water the cucumbers thoroughly once a week. In summer, when temperatures rise, you can water the cucumbers every 3 days. If you water your vegetables too often but too little, you can cause waterlogging. Irregular watering stresses the plants and they can die. Another,frequent casting errorsis to water the plants from above. Wet leaves are entry points for pathogens such as fungi or bacteria and can promote their reproduction.

Do you have to cut off the yellow leaves and can you eat the cucumbers?

Basically, if the plant is infested with pests such as spider mites or aphids, then you have to fight the pests. Leave the leaves standing - cutting them back will further weaken the plant. You can eat the cucumbers.

If you have mildew, you can cut off the affected leaves to prevent the fungus from spreading. The diseased plant parts must then be disposed of with household waste and must under no circumstances end up in the compost heap. The affected fruits are not edible.

If it's a watering mistake, you just have to cut off the dried leaves. These are entry points for bacteria and viruses. You can eat the cucumbers. However, if the plant has not received enough water, the fruits often have a bitter taste.