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Kansas City, MO

I'm having my best year ever. Three plants, have the best pumpkin singled out and growing. All three over 100 and gaining 10-20 lbs per day. My only concern: all of my leaves have been big and dark green but are now very slowly getting lighter in color. They also seem to be drying out, maybe even 'crispy.' All thoughts appreciated.
Greg

7/27/2005 10:43:28 PM

Puyallup, WA

As the leaves age, they lose their chlorophyll. When that happens, they can no longer convert the suns rays into
"pumpkin nector".....ie, photosynthesis. Consequently, pumpkin growth slows. Now you understand why some of us do not start so early! We want our plants to still be working in September.

7/28/2005 1:31:02 AM

NEPA [email protected] KB3QKV

Maybe this previous thread may help started by Mark in Western PA... http://www.bigpumpkins.com/msgboard/ViewThread.asp?b=3&p=126033

7/28/2005 8:41:14 AM

Kansas City, MO

Thanks guys, which helps the best-fish and seaweed, calcium sprays or another shot of 20/20/20?

7/28/2005 9:55:59 AM

Hudsonville, Michigan ([email protected])

I would say NOT the 20-20-20. Not sure whether the seaweed or calcium would be better. Both are good, as long as not overdone...

7/28/2005 10:13:07 AM

Midwest

Are the leaves newer or, older ones close to the crown?
Edwards,
Could you explain why the 20-20-20 is not a good choice? MG 20-20-20 has trace elements that might help the leaves get healthy. specifically molybdenum? Is 20-20-20 too much for the fruit?
Greg

7/28/2005 2:09:09 PM

Kansas City, MO

I would say it's on all leaves but clearly more on older ones. Greg

7/28/2005 2:14:00 PM

Hudsonville, Michigan ([email protected])

Greg
I've burnt plants with 20-20-20 before. The low numbers of the seaweed are lot less likely to burn anything. Plus, I believe the organic trace elements in the seaweed are healthier for your plant than the chemical source of anything in the 20-20-20...
One thing I would note is that in past years when my plant has gone into decline, with older leaves dying back, my instinct has always been to try to 'help' it with some fertilizer. My 'help' has usually hastened the demise. More is not better. Use moderation, no matter what you use...

7/28/2005 2:27:21 PM

No Place Special

I use a great deal of 20-20-20 but I only use the Lesco Macron brand. Fruit growth jumps when I drench with it.

7/28/2005 4:31:18 PM