Definition, Bark Split "Freezing temperatures are especially dangerous to unprotected branches and main stems, causing the bark to split and separate from the body of the the stem. In severe cases, a limb will become completely girdled and everything above that point will die; in cases of moderate damage the bark splits and rolls back but not to the point of girdling the branch. Such injury is deceptive in that affected branches may not die until the following Spring or Summer, going unnoticed in the meantime while hidden by foliage. Sometimes freezing conditions will only split the bark without causing it to separate from the core. These wounds often callous over and allow the plant to function normally, but until the cracks heal they provide easy entry to fungus infections. Grafting wax painted onto these cracks will aid in their healing process and prevent diseases from entering." Here is a link that might be useful: Photo #8, Bark Split Rhododendron

Charlotte, Your temps are still fine for that squash. I would leave them on the vine until the skin is too tough to puncture with a fingernail. The only curing I've ever heard of, for squash, is perhaps to wipe them down with a light disinfectant, to prevent possible spoilage. But I myself have never done that with my squash. Cooler temps, but above freezing seem best for storage. But when pinched for space I've used them for doorstops, stashed them behind the couch and under the bed! Hubbards are renowned for storing well. But, if, after say, four or five months, you still have quite a few unused squash, you might consider cooking some up and either freezing or canning in order to ensure the longest possible use of your harvest. That's what we're going to do this year. George Tahlequah, OK

Well, the snow flew and the leaves all died. But the vines are still plenty green and sturdy. The squash are still healthy looking but don't look mature or hardened so I know they are not ready for Winter. Is this a lost cause?? We have all warm weather... 55-65 degree days and 45 - 55 degree nights... for at least the next week or so. Will it make any difference? I just figured as long as they look healthy and happy I would leave them out, but if there is no chance of them going the distance I may as well pick them and treat them as I would a Summer squash. Any thoughts?? Thanks :)

somehow the beginning of my message was cut off. As the pictures above show, the bottom leaves are dying off. I have removed most of the dead leaves, There are also grey and darker spots on the stems, which are pictured above. Would love some help identifying this problem as well as solutions. I read through a book I have on tomatoes and could not identify the disease with one in particular. As noted above,the plants are in pots which have peat, vermiculite and the other small glass rock. My home made equivalent of a earthbox.