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Hulett, Wyoming

A few years ago my husband decided to try to grow a giant pumpkin. He was able to grow one that was 280 pounds that year. We have not been able to grow another one since. The seeds we have are from the 280 pound one that he grew. They seem to do well for a peiod of time and then the plant or pumpkin dies. This year he started a plant indoors attempting to expand the growing season and get a larger pumpkin but unfortunatly he was killed in an ATV accident in May. Here's where I need help. We would very much love to finish growing his pumpkin and get him his "OWN NEW RECORD." We could never hope to get much larger than his 280 pounds but we want so badly to try. I need advice on how to accomplish this feat. I am having a difficult time trying to find information on what type of soil pumpkins like, feeding, watering, and really, everything about getting the big one. Is there anyone who would like to share their information or a website that would be helpful so that we can honor my husbands wish to "get a bigger one this year?" We appreciate any help!
Thank you
Terry - wife
Shannon - daughter
Greg - son

6/17/2011 10:47:15 PM

South Bloomfield, Ohio

My condolences on your loss Terry. Perhaps the best advice I can provide is for you to obtain Don Langevin's "How to Grow Giant Pumpkins". I believe there are three editions, I, II, and III. They will provide you with the basics and have been a wealth of information for newer growers.

Your quest for advice here on BP.com would result in too many responses which would probably add more confusion, although it must be pointed out that the people here are perhaps the best nicest and most helpful you will ever come across.

6/18/2011 8:32:15 AM

Polson, Montana

You have a an accomplished grower in Riverton, Wyoming that may help you.
rdhoffman@wyoming.com
Ron Hoffman
P O Box 6135
Riverton, WY 82501

6/18/2011 9:01:12 AM

Minnesota

Hi, you need seeds soil sun and luck. You can get the best seeds here, just ask. Have a soil test, post them here and some one will recommend amendments. A mentor, someone who is experienced in this helps. A visit to there patch can help alot. The second half of the season they take alot of water. You should have something to kill vine borers if they have them in Wyoming. Growing more than one plant at a time can better your chances of beating 280. Put questions in the search bar or topics, alot of info, ask questions, there is a new growers postings spot. A plant takes from 500-750 feet . This Hobby is addicting.

6/18/2011 3:31:57 PM

Hulett, Wyoming

Thank you all for your help. I will follow up as recommended by you all. Terry

6/18/2011 3:51:13 PM

Kentucky, U.S.A.

First of all, my best wishes and condolances. Second, dedication! I'm a new grower, anything will be a personal best, but this is where to learn. As much time as possible read all you can, and I'd suggest a run through of last years diaries! Don Langevin's books are a must have refferance. Lastly, moderation! Just cause you read how 'So and So' did this or that, doesn't mean it will happen like that for everyone. This is a very much trial and error hobby. That's why the suggestion of two plants instead of one. When tring something you have idea whether it will work or not may cost you your plant, or harm it enough to lose the ability to produce a fruit it time! Do look up Ron Huffman. I don't know him, but if he's a giant pumpkin grower he'll help! If you're not carefull the bug may bite you too as well. Plenty of female growers of BIG pumpkins on here!!! Terry, Shannon and Greg, God Bless! BSD, David

6/18/2011 10:49:43 PM

Pinetops,n.c.

first, very sorry to hear of your loss, i very much respect your decision to try and grow his personal best .i would recommend going to the extreme pumpkin website (it is located in the top right hand corner on the homepage of this website, just click on the extreme pumpkin icon). tom privitera is the owner and a top grower also, he is very generous with his knowledge and i have no doubt he would do his best to help you achieve your goal.he has all the products and materials you will need. the site also offers detailed programs for season long care of your plant(s).tom can answer most any question you have.also you can come into the chat room on this website and there will on any given night be several of the best growers in the world there, and they will gladly help you out.again sorry for your loss and good luck. gary lovitt north carolina

6/29/2011 3:11:14 PM

Belmont, WV

Terry, Shannon and Greg I am truly sorry for your loss. My father passed away at age 53 in 2000 and it is definitely tough. To me the biggest difference in weight gains are obtained by burying your vines. This produces a much better root system and stabalizes the vines against harsh weather. There are some great articles on here about burying the vines. Hope this helps and God bless!!!

7/28/2011 10:53:56 AM