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Buffalo, MN (Billsbigpumpkins@hotmail.com)

Occasionally I receive questions from growers that I don't have a good answers. So my question is what are growers in warmer climates doing to increase the chances of success pollination for giant pumpkins?

11/2/2020 9:06:05 AM

Centennial Colorado

frozen water bottles.

11/2/2020 9:40:55 AM

Sourthern Utah

i have used the frozen water bottle method several times here in southern Utah, it works well. make sure the bottles do not touch the new pollinated fruit, I also put a sheet over them as to assist with pollination, then remove the bottles and sheet at night. depending on the temperatures, it gets quite hot here in June and July.

11/2/2020 10:26:50 AM

Centennial Colorado

I also put a chair and the reflective insulation on top with sand holding the insulation down.

11/2/2020 10:34:51 AM

Buffalo, MN (Billsbigpumpkins@hotmail.com)

I put a cheap Styrofoam cooler over it and put a mister to spray on the top of the cooler. Worked the first time did not work the second time.

11/2/2020 1:59:55 PM

Colorado

Ive found that putting white fabric under the baby pumpkin for a few days before the deed helps.I use misting and drip.I keep the plant well hydrated for a couple days during and after pollinization.I rarely do the ice thing but I'll cover the just pollinated pumpkin with a white bath towel as insulation.I'll leave the towel there for three days then its time to start getting the petals off so the nub doesnt stay wet too long.I have a very high set rate.Was 100% last year and it was fricking hot.

11/2/2020 2:23:26 PM

Centennial Colorado

I find the moisture even in a dry environment causes it not to work. I try to keep it dry as best as possible around the pumpkin. I mist the plant around it though to keep it less stressed.

11/2/2020 2:24:23 PM

Centennial Colorado

Joe and I do a lot of similar things, but I find I can't have anything tough the pumpkin. That is why I put the chair and insulation over it and a blanket over pvc arches, so the pumpkin is not heating up from direct contact. I have never understood putting a blanket directly on the pumpkin. On a hot, sunny day would you put on a blanket?

11/2/2020 2:38:49 PM

Muddy Waters

Shade clothe the entire plant.I use 40% shade netting.When you shade the entire plant you will cool the environment by 10 to 15 degrees.The direct sun really transfers a lot of heat from the soil.I like to cover the soil surrounding the plant by using shade netting or drop clothes placed on the soil.Its amazing the temperature difference you will see.

11/3/2020 8:17:59 PM

Centennial Colorado

Most people in hot regions use 22%. I used black 40% and reported temps of 130 on a 90 degree day. Won't make that mistake again.

11/3/2020 8:52:03 PM