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Nashville, TN

OK - doing pretty good here.. Though we're getting 4" downpores followed by 14-18 day Hot & dry periods inbetween... NOT the best of year for growing ANYTHING!! But the new garden is postioned over the Septic drainage field - and most of the plants are showing little stress from lack of rain.. Guess having ALL three kids here during the summer is pumping enough extra water through the septic system to keep them watered from below???***grin*****

Here's the question: About 10 of the GP plants have hit about 8-10' of vine length.. most already have flowers open - with dozens of immature flowers ready to grow. I'm planning to remove the already pollinated ones (OP) and start covering the unopened ones for hand pollination. How far down the vine should I pluck the flowers off until I start leaving some to set?? How many should I let set per plant at first?? How long to wait before I make the 'final cut' and choose one Pumkin to mature per plant??

6/22/2005 8:54:45 AM

ipswich, ma usa

1 -- up to 12, then pollinate till one is set

2 -- leave them all on till one is set

3 -- I let 3 set then look for best

4 -- If all conditions are optimal for growing I cull at
day 20 measurements.


John (5150)

6/22/2005 9:31:31 AM

Midwest

I agree with John's recommendations. Make all those males count. Inspect the lobes to see if they fit the recommendations of experienced growers. ie. not damaged inside and number of lobes 4-5. Shazzy has a technique for cooling down the flowers when pollinating. He uses some ice and cooler when the temps get hot.

Greg

6/22/2005 1:50:28 PM