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Natick, Massachusetts

I have always used a plastic mulch in my veggie garden. As a novice to giant pumpkin growing, I wonder if this is a good or bad idea?
Thank you in advance for your advice and comments!
Steve

2/16/2000 7:01:34 AM

Bristol,CT

Depends on the purpose - to increase soil temperature or reduce weeds. I would recommend putting down black plastic mulch or fabric in early April to get the soil temperature up. Using a compost/soil thermometer, my soil will stay in the 50's without any cover. However, I was able to get the plastic mulched soil inside of a small greenhouse up to 80 degrees by May 1 so that I could have germinated outdoors. Once your vines are 3 feet or so, it should be warm enough to remove the mulch. I would then begin burying the vines with a few inches of soil to encourage root growth from the leaf axils. Continue to cover the vines and weed as needed. The large leaves should provide enough shade as the season progresses to discourage excessive weed growth.

2/16/2000 6:09:47 PM

Natick, Massachusetts

Thank you Roseman!
Another basic question,
What is the pupose of mounding the soil? How large should the mound be? How many plants do you start in each mound and how much distance should be between mounds? Call this a mound of questions!
Thanks,
Steve

2/17/2000 7:02:22 AM