May 2004. Cucumbers in Vanuatu are drying, the leaves are becoming papery and it happens quite quickly, stopping everything in its tracks. There has been dry weather, but with heavy dews which leave the leaves wet till about mid-morning. There are some thrips on the back of the leaves, but there are enough to cause the problem.

Water stress was suggested. Cucumber leaves are very thin and papery when dry. Check for nematodes or other problems in the roots. Also, look for lesions on the lower stem, e.g., at ground level. However, if the cause was due to stem girdling the plant would wilt first. But there could be a problem with the roots. Nutrition seems to be alright, judging bythe appearance of the weeds.

A similar problem occurred later and was thought caused by the planting of hybrid seed: See Wilt, Vanuatu: