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Location

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Date Posted

Xenia,ohio

this will be my second year growing a giant. my first year was very successful in my book. i grew three, one weighing 380# one at 325# and my largest one at 568#. still forrest gumping my way though this, i have a couple questions. How do i go about a soil test i think this will really help. one more question, if i put fresh manure on the patch now will it be benificial even not being composted?

1/2/2011 3:25:00 PM

South Hero, VT

3 quick soil labs: http://www.umass.edu/plsoils/soiltest/ http://www.westernlaboratories.com/ http://www.al-labs-west.com/ Western is the most expensive($46), A&L is about $35, and UMass is around $20.

Each web site has directions for soil sampling.

Fresh manure may be composted enough by end of April to till under. I wouldn't use chicken manure based on Joe Jutras" experience in 2008(not good).

1/2/2011 4:20:40 PM

South Hero, VT

Here's a link to a previous discussion on soil labs: http://www.bigpumpkins.com/MsgBoard/ViewThread.asp?b=19&p=374819

1/2/2011 4:25:36 PM

Muddy Waters

I would make sure manure is at least 1 year old, 2 years if sawdust or straw involved

1/12/2011 7:23:51 PM