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Subject:  Root under the pumpkin...

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NoLongerActive

Garden

Is it better to just cut the tap root off under the pumpkin to prevent stem stress, or to just continually pull it up?
What are some indications that the stem is being stressed?

9/16/2003 4:37:29 PM

CEIS

In the shade - PDX, OR

Better safe than sorry.

I use a sharp knife and cut the tap root under the stem/vine junction. This allows the vine to raise up with the fruit as it grows.
As the fruit gets even bigger most growers cut the tap roots w/i 3 ft.

indications:
The stem will be bent downwards.
It could develop cracks (lengthwise ok, crosswise dangerous)
IF totally neglected, over time the stem could snap off or pull itself off of the vine.

Check out Black Cloud's diary and near the end you will see a good example of bad fruit positioning & stem stress (fruit grew on top of the vine). The stem was stressed and it has nearly ripped itself from the vine.

No offence Blkcloud - I know that this was your "neglected" test example.

9/16/2003 5:17:49 PM

NoLongerActive

Garden

And you wait to cut it til you see signs of stress, or right away?
I was thinking I would wait to take advantage of that root system for as long as possible.
Thanks for the advice!

9/16/2003 5:33:18 PM

CEIS

In the shade - PDX, OR

You can wait if you like.

Just make sure to check it daily and cut at first sign of stress.

9/16/2003 8:09:43 PM

docgipe

Montoursville, PA

I don't like the waiting at all! Double stem crack here the specific cause of which was freeing the vine to late and for not great enough distance from the fruit.

9/16/2003 9:57:04 PM

NoLongerActive

Garden

Well, I went ahead and cut the tap roots within a couple feet of the pumpkin. The stem was bent downward quite a bit, but I think I caught it in time. Thanks for all your advice!

9/18/2003 12:22:07 PM

NoLongerActive

Garden

Pumpkin stopped growing when I cut the tap roots?
Coincedence? Suggestions?

9/19/2003 1:21:19 PM

Total Posts: 7 Current Server Time: 1/23/2025 7:47:51 PM
 
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