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Brighton, Mi.

I have a blossom end split just beginning to develope. It's only 1/16" deep and 2" long. The pumpkin is only growing about 10lbs a day, but we just got swamped with rain the past 3 days and the sun is suppposed to come out tomorrow and stay out through the weekend. I'm thinking about cutting 1/2 way through the main vine to stop any sudden growth spurts. I don't want to lose the pumpkin, it's big and a new personal best.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

9/14/2006 10:41:48 AM

Western Pa.

Kevin,

I believe the Checkon's were faced with this dilemma back when they grew their FIRST world record! I'm not sure if they had a split, but were afraid they'd lose their pumpkin because of all the rain. I believe they did slit their main vine to slow down growth. I have also used a umbrella or tarp over stump and part of plant to keep it from getting so much water. Keep the splits dry and covered with Captan. If it's a deep split, you may want to seal it with caulking. Good luck!
kilr

9/14/2006 10:55:44 AM

San Jose [email protected]

cutting roots is one option, take a shovel, go by the crown, cut about half the roots

9/14/2006 8:44:15 PM