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Scituate,RI

Hello,because of the size restrictions in my yard I planted 2 only 6 feet apart. I was hoping to do the flag pattern of pruning. When should I start cutting the unwanted side down? And how close to the main?
Also, Am I suppose to remove vines near, around, the main? Thank you for any help.

6/19/2010 5:55:45 PM

Midway, UT

How big is your total space? You might consider going with just one plant.

6/20/2010 9:05:35 AM

San Diego

I've got two plants in a 30 X 10. Six feet apart at initial planting. Both are already coming back around on itself. I'm using the perimeter of the fence as a guide and it's getting crowded. It's not even hot yet. I've got pics in the growers diary. It'll give you an idea of what you are up against. I'm a newbie and this year is just a blast for me. Nothing too serious.....might show by all the empties in the patch!!!!!hah. Good Luck to you!

6/20/2010 10:37:53 AM

Scituate,RI

Thank you for replying.
my total space...well length wise I'd say 30'. But the problem is, with the plants being 6' apart the secondaries will be all over each other. I'm trying to direct their grow away but not sure if I can completely. Thats why I had heard about trying a "flag" pattern. Where you cut the secondaries on one side? Anyone try this?
Tugg, I viewed your pics. So far they seem great. You have 2 total plants? Are you going to grow as many pumpkins as you can on each? I wouldn't want to be the one at the bottom of that hill with a 1000lb pumpkin coming at me!

6/20/2010 11:11:08 AM

Scituate,RI

I saw this in someones diary...

http://www.bigpumpkins.com/Diary/DiaryViewOne.asp?eid=118469

6/20/2010 11:12:57 AM

Scituate,RI

Also, is there any proof growing 1 pumpkin per plant will produce the largest? If you grow 3-4 per plant and they all get ample food,water, sunlight, why would down sizing guarantee better results?

6/20/2010 11:15:57 AM

Anchorage, Alaska

Because a 600sqft plant can provide more photosynthetic energy to one pumpkin than it can to four. Leaves don't collect more or less sunlight based on how many fruit are attached. If you grow more leaves you have less time to grow fruit.

6/20/2010 11:25:15 AM

Rhode Island

go over to joe jutra or steve sperrys home (joe lives in situate and steve a few miles into johnston )
either can give you the best advise for your problem.

6/21/2010 6:28:02 AM