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Greenfield, Mass

I've done a good deal of research but still don't know some basic things.
1)how big is the root structure? How deep and how wide at seed root and at vine nodes.
2) how does fruit placement matter? Should it be as close to the seed root as possible? Does the vine after the fruit matter much, or is that just for overall plant health.

Thanks

1/30/2012 9:35:32 AM

Mill Bay, British Columbia

Dr. Jerry,

1) The root structure is massive, they don't seem to go super deep but spread as wide and as long as your patch is.

http://www.bigpumpkins.com/Diary/DiaryViewOne.asp?eid=21717

2) fruit placement is (in my opinion) very important and can make or break your season. At least 10-12' out on the main vine, with at least 6 to 8 secondaries (more is better) on each side before the pumpkin.

3) for newer growers, I'd recommend terminating the vine ater the chosen pumpkin to eliminate vine stress issues and to allow for easier fruit to vine placement as she grows taller and wider.

Would really recommend that you find a mentor with a few years experience in your local area, become friends and visit his/her patch on a regular basis to see how things are done...best of luck...keep asking!!

1/30/2012 1:44:45 PM

Ashby, MA

Hi Dr. Jerry, Where is Greenfield?

1/30/2012 5:01:00 PM

Ashby, MA

Never mind.... I found it. You're out near Dearfield (home of Yankee Candle). If you're ever near Ashby and want to stop by and take a look at my patch. I'm going into my 3rd year. No where near an expert but I can share what I do know.

1/30/2012 5:03:40 PM

Rhode Island

hope to see both of you at the new england cookout this year. its being hosted this summer in rhode island by the sngpg.
nothing beats a first hand in person look.
date to be advertized once its been determined.
pap

1/30/2012 9:15:21 PM

Greenfield, Mass

Thanks guys!
NSB,
Thanks for the details. I hope to find someone, I know there is at least one grower in my county.
gpierce,
I'm where rout 2 meets 91. Actually I'm about a mile from Kringle Candle, the Kittredge's (Yankee's founder) new candle company. If your into that kind of thing... I don't know how often I'll be out near Ashby, but I guess I'll be taking 2 rather than the pike to go east now that I've moved up here. And I'd love to see how you do things.
Pap,
That sounds like a great time, I look forward to it! Where in RI?

1/31/2012 8:36:36 AM

Rhode Island

details will be available once dates/times/etc have been formed. im sure the articles will be in sngpg/negpga and nhgpga newsletters.

1/31/2012 9:28:51 AM

Ashby, MA

Will definitely try to attend this year.

1/31/2012 11:37:39 AM

Billerica,Massachusetts

always a good time!

1/31/2012 12:55:09 PM

Owensboro, Ky.

Wish I lived up that way!!! But alas, will require retirement, b/4 I make it to a SNGPG patch tour!!! LOL Hope I am still alive!!! LOL Peace, Wayne

1/31/2012 8:50:37 PM