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Norfolk, UK

Hi,

Having been catching up with a number of previous diary entries from around the world, I've seen lots of ways of covering pumpkins - some just too tarps (lots of ventilation, but blocks mid day sun) and others full enclosures with white cotton bedsheets (?) and heaters overnight (some light?). Is there a reason not to use tarps on all four sides? Have to hand and was thinking good for any overnight heating and darker still on light, but ventilation would be reduced... UK based, outside. Potential issues?

Thanks,
Douglas

4/29/2016 5:24:13 PM

Garden State Pumpkins

The pumpkin if Any size will outgrow the natural coverage of it's leaf canopy. that will put it into direct sunlight which will harden it's outer skin. When the pumpkin continues to grow this may cause it to split and rot. While we want the photosynthesis on the vine we don't want the pumpkin to age early. a tarp cover of the pumpkin will allow the plant to get full sun and the area around the pumpkin stay dry avoiding direct sunlight, allowing airflow thus avoiding mold etc. if the cotton cover gets wet it must be removed and allowed to dry to avoid mold. I hope this helps maybe someone with more experience can explain it better... GrowEmBig! chuck

4/29/2016 6:01:01 PM

Upa Creek, Mo

I agree with Chuck. I use a white sheet and like to tuck it around the fruit, but I have to be able to adjust daily. I grow next to a wooded area with lots of critters so this "helps" keep them away a bit. I also use a tarp above rigged as a small canopy to block the sun, but make sure I get plenty of airflow. I also never cover the stem as it gets really humid and hot here and that is the first place I usually see rot. Good luck

4/29/2016 7:40:52 PM

South Hero, VT

The purpose of a tarp is to prevent aging of the pumpkin's skin via sunlight hitting the fruit. A tough skin will increase chances of the pumpkin splitting as it grows larger.

Ventilation is necessary to prevent rot and other fungal problems.

4/29/2016 8:03:23 PM

Portland, OR

Purpose of the sheet (& blanket in September) is to protect the fruit - mainly from critters. Squirrels, woodchucks, deer etc. might want to take a bite.

From pollination to harvest my fruit are covered.

5/2/2016 7:19:04 PM

Norfolk, UK

Thanks all - sounds like keeping good ventilation is also key, as well as blocking sun, do I'll keep that in mind when rigging up tarps

5/3/2016 3:23:10 AM