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Aurora, Il

Hi Everyone
I am seeking some advice from seasoned growers on their experience with selecting the "ONE". I have so far on the main a pollinated 19 day old (selfed 194 Chandler (679 Janowiak x 1185 Shenoha)), a 6 day old (194 Chandler x 989 Liggett), a 4 day old (selfed 194 Chandler (679 Janowiak x 1185 Shenoha)), and a brand new baby pollinated this morning (194 Chandler x 1916 Barron). First one is looking like it could enter the freak contest since it is growing crazy in shape. On Friday, the circumference was 29 3/8". I thought the second would abort, but today it has grown considerably. The 3rd is slower and may be worth removing. The 1916 Barron is the one I had waited for since I wanted the pollen to introduce different genetics and because it went 20% heavy. At last year's weigh off - my very first!!! - went 4% heavy. I have a really strong main vine with secondaries and loads of females. I have introduced some new products recommended on BigPumpkins by a really experienced grower with great results! I am not sure how to go about selecting the right fruit. What are the signs to look for, how do I proceed with cutting off nutrients to developing fruits I don't want, and what are your own experiences with selection? Any helpful advice would be appreciated - thanks!

7/12/2015 11:08:36 AM

Mill Bay, British Columbia

Have you got a diary where you can post pictures? Usually pictures can help other growers give better advice.

7/12/2015 11:31:32 AM

Kentucky, U.S.A.

The main vine fruit tends to be favored as they have a more direct line to nourishment. My first year growing any pumpkin would "be the one". When culling a less desirable kin, up to soccer ball size, I just cut it off, anything larger, I would do a partial cut. Cut a 'V' up to half the way across the stem, wait half a day or so before cutting it he rest of the way off. If the kin is near 100lbs. or more take it off in three cuts. Two years ago, I grew three pumpkins on one plant, all were on side vines. I'm growing a plant out of one of those pumpkins this year, and very pleased!

7/13/2015 5:31:44 PM

San Diego

Just curious, why would you cut over time?

7/13/2015 5:55:51 PM

Central NY

You might chance surge of water to other fruit and pop that sucker...cut halfway through stem.. Next day cut off..

7/14/2015 6:20:14 AM

Aurora, Il

Thank you to those who replied! I have a diary and have started posting photos this year. Big Show and Porkchop, thank you so much for the warning and detailed info on how to carry out my selection and cuts. I am looking to make the cuts today partially and complete it tomorrow - hopefully, no more rain since last night dumped a lot! My plant is growing crazy with the heat and rain. Constant male and female flowers, so I am pollinating everything just to be safe for now.

7/14/2015 10:49:21 AM