This might be the start of squash vine borer damage. Adult squash vine borers lay eggs along squash stems. When the eggs hatch, the larvae bore into the stems, killing the part of the vine above the entry point. It can be quite devastating. Remove and kill adults (pick them off and dump them in soapy water and search out and scrape off any eggs you can find that are already laid. Also watch for hatched larvae. Most damage occurs in July and August.
If the stem that’s cracked wilts, it’s probably the cause. Cut off the stem and look inside to find the larvae. Smash them! To read more about this pest and organic controls, go here: http://www.motherearthnews.com/organic-gardening/squash-vine-borer-control-zw0z1304zkin.aspx#axzz37mHeZ1ns
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