From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Indianapolis,In

I plan on having 5 mounds for pumpkins this year. I plan on putting 2 plants per hill. I plan on planting 2 per mound and eliminating the weaker of the two. My question is for the experienced growers is how long do I wait before making a decision?

5/8/2001 8:54:15 AM

Western Pa.

Wolfie,

There have been times when I planted my seedlings and they died a few days to a week later. It was either due to over handling of the young plant, or the plants failing to "aclimate". Once these seedlings "take root", growth will be fast and furious , I wouldn't wait too long or roots from both plants will be entwined, and removing one could damage the roots of the other. Last year, I grew a LaRue 915 that basically just sat there till mid June, THEN it took off and grew like crazy! It threw a 6 lobe female flower on July 20th(it's first), which was a little late, and though neglected, grew 2 pumpkins in the 250# range.I guess what I'm trying to say is "it's a crap shoot!" Use your own discretion. Just wait until you have to start pruning pumpkins from your vine, your conscience may get the best of you when, with the slash of the knife, you could be culling the next (potential) World Record!(Side affects: a dull and apprehensive feeling in the gut!) Old age and growing giant pumpkins ain't for sissies!

kilr

5/8/2001 1:21:52 PM

Long Island,New York

When you DO cull...just cut the stem at ground level. No sense disturbing any surrounding roots.............Glenn A

5/8/2001 3:40:45 PM

Greencastle, PA

lipumpkin,
thats a good idea, if you look at it this way the roots of the culled plant become food for its nieghbor.

5/8/2001 5:42:41 PM