From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Modesto, CA

Hello to all...I have about 7 females on my plant and right now, I have one that is about golf ball size and is about to bloom. After I pollinate, can someone tell me when I should start shading the fruit? Thanks in advance

7/10/2000 4:42:07 PM

Midway City, California

From what I have read and am following is To start the shading of the pumpkin when they get to Basketball Size.

Water = John

7/10/2000 4:54:23 PM

Modesto, CA

Thank you John (Water) for your information. That is a big help to me since this is my first year in growing pumpkins. I'll tell you, it's nothing like growing tomatoes...so much more work involved!

P'kingrower~ Monica

7/10/2000 5:01:40 PM

Long Island,New York

The pumpkin should be artificially shaded once the leaf canopy no longer protects it. I get hot sun from the sides late in the day and have a lawn chair stratigically positioned to shade it for now.(put a heavy rock on it to keep it from blowing over) if you live in a hotter area or pollinate on a hot day and want it to take,i would recommend shading with an old white sheet a few feet above and around the fruit right away.. A days sunshine lost for 5-8 leaves isn't going to make or break your year...but may save the pollination. ...........Glenn A.

7/10/2000 5:02:08 PM