My Squash Leaves Wilt in the Afternoon

Sunlight

The leaves of squash plants protect the fruit of the plant from the direct rays of the sun, filtering out part of the light. As well, the leaves provide nutrients for the plant through photosynthesis. Excessive sunlight causes the leaves of the plant to wilt. This is particularly true in the afternoons, when the sunlight is most intense and strong. If there is routinely very bright or harsh sun, consider using a shade cover to protect your plant during the brightest parts of the day.

Humidity is a common factor in wilting leaves, particular during the hottest parts of the afternoon. Excessively humid temperatures cause stress to the plant, increasing the amount of moisture in the air surrounding it. The leaves of the plant wilt as an indicator of the level of stress, as wilting leaves helps the plant conserve energy. Mulch the ground surrounding your squash plants to help maintain consistent soil moisture levels. This will help keep the plant cool and less susceptible to fluctuations in humidity.

The afternoon is often the brightest and warmest part of the day. The high temperatures, in combination with the strong sunlight, produces very warm growing conditions. As the plant continues to absorb and release water during the day as a means of maintaining equilibrium, the leaves of the plant may wilt due to high temperatures as a means of conserving energy and water. Mulching your squash plants can help prevent drastic wilting by conserving soil moisture and keeping the ground surrounding your squash plants cooler.

Irrigation is the most important means of protection for wilting leaves. During the hottest parts of the summer, ensure your plants receive enough water. Water your squash plants daily, giving them a minimum of 1 inch of water, and more if the temperatures are very high. The soil should be moist when touched, 1 inch below the soil surface. If the soil is dry, dusty or hard, the squash plant is being under watered and runs the risk of dehydrating and dying.