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Location

Message

Date Posted

Pennsylvania

I'm growing howden pumpkins for jack-o-lanterns. I hand pollinated my first female flower this morning, and tonight when I was looking at things after work, the flower is closed like I figured it should be but I swear the little pumpkin underneath looks bigger than it did this morning. Does this seem right, I'm not growing giants here, but I was a little surprised by this tonight. Thanks for any thoughts.

7/17/2009 7:47:17 PM

Rhode Island

wow

7/18/2009 7:53:54 AM

Pennsylvania

i'm sorry i guess i should have been more specific, i was surprised because the baby pumpkin under the flower doubled in size after i pollinated it.

7/18/2009 11:43:17 PM

Rhode Island

no disrespect intended . why would you hand pollinate howden jack-o-lantern pumpkins? what would be the purpose?

7/19/2009 6:48:26 AM

Pennsylvania

lack of bees we've been seeing less and less bees this year

7/19/2009 8:22:16 AM

Ham Lake, Minnesota

I also hand pollinate my buttercup squash, if I just happen to notice it in the morning. Nothing special just tear off any old male and get er done. Had the same problem with fruits not taking because no bees around. All manual ones take every time. Bees must be on strike.

7/20/2009 2:39:52 PM

Owatonna Minnesota

I dont believe that the bees are on strike(LOL)they just have been in decline .Due to some sort of mites I believe.Also so much use of systemic insect killers.I live in southern Mn.and have been fortunate.I really don`t have that many issues with bad bugs.I put in a small flower garden for my wife and daughters and it lies between my pumpkin patch and my vegatble garden.I think that has helped alot or it could be just luck.Have a great nite

7/29/2009 10:11:41 PM