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Kentucky, U.S.A.

In our first year/attempt at growing a pumpkin of size, I've learned alot. I've seen the blossoms tied up after pollenation, or is the styma(SP) actually in blossom for best possible pollenation?

9/3/2010 1:56:46 PM

3 acre corner in Whittaker,Mi USA (faulkner5@msn.com)

The blossoms get tied up after hand pollinatimg so as to keep the bees from introducing pollen from diffent plants into the female. Mainly this serves to keep the grower in knowing what plant exactly pollinated that particular female. The blossoms(petals) should be removed a day or two after pollination so the females lobes stay dry as to prevent rotting from moisture. Hope this helps you!! Erik

9/4/2010 12:13:01 AM

Kentucky, U.S.A.

Thanks,Erik. Yeah, that makes sence. We're just so far behind We'll be glad to get punkmelons! As I read these messages and learn I get more impatient for next season!
We've got several on the vines now, one about 80lbs. So, we'll have a PB to shoot for next year! Much to learn, lots of pop to move! David

9/4/2010 7:09:17 AM

Rhode Island

dont go crazy with the manure. excessive manure and the high nitrogen levels it makes will only come back to haunt you next season. a litte goes a long way.
noting invites diseases more than high heat coupled with high nitrogen levels.

9/4/2010 7:12:02 AM

Kentucky, U.S.A.

Thanks, Pap. Yeah, I gets veggie murdering hot here. We have no depth of soil, see our community is aptly named Rockfield. The soil has been quite depleted as it was used as a tobacco patch for a long time. I was tring to put in stuff that would help hold what little moisture we get, and I do expect to have to expand some next year. I'll be sure to try to balance out this red dirt we have! Pap, your replies (that i've read so far)have been very enlightening, Thank again. David

9/4/2010 8:02:39 AM

Kentucky, U.S.A.

Another hindsight beginner question on pollenation: Is it wise to use several male flowers to each female?? Didn't think about that. Oh, we won't go there!! David

9/5/2010 8:43:22 AM

Rhode Island

we like to use three males if they are available however one should do if its got plenty of pollon on the stamen.

9/6/2010 7:55:04 AM