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Las Vegas

I've been growing giant pumpkins for several years but without really worrying about what I get out of the plant. Well that was in NS Canada. I recently moved to Las Vegas and brought some seeds. I set up my soil, and planted the seeds quite some time ago, and I've had about a dozen female blossoms start but none have opened up. They just die and shrivel up before they open. What is happening here? Is it too hot here (temp is 100+ every day). I planted the pumpkins partially under a tree so they get shade for some of the day and I give tons of water. My three plants all have main vines over 15 feet long and they look really healthy, with many secondary vines. There is no disease I can see, no insects bothering them, and no reason I can see for them not to open females. I've never had a problem with these things growing before. Help me please.

6/21/2004 9:52:21 PM

I would guess it's the heat... but it could be a nutrient deficiency. Others will know what to do about the nutrients better than I do. But for the heat, you can try making a mini cool environment around your females with ice and a cooler, and a cloth or tarp for shade. With it being so hot, I would start that as soon as you spot the female blossoms when they are tiny.

6/21/2004 11:58:42 PM

California Bay Area

A few weeks ago i fertilized alot and the samt thing happened to me. i'm not sure if over ferting can cause this but thats what i narrowed it down to. let off the ferts and they started opening again.

6/22/2004 1:00:15 AM

Ctpumpkin@optonline.net

Too much Nitrogen or a ratio of too much N to Phosphorus can have this effect. For sure the heat can too. I don't know much about NV soils. A soil test wouldn't be a bad idea on any soil. Perhaps there is a good soil scientist you can ally with at your county AG Station. Misting for temperature reduction may be in your future as well.

6/22/2004 6:32:32 AM

Sequim, WA

Offer them money.

6/22/2004 10:58:10 AM

Eugene, OR

Candy is dandy but liquor is quicker. :-)

6/22/2004 11:12:32 AM

Ga.

Jabber,,I have a plant about 15 ft out,,it gets the fruit on,,but they have failed to open also..That plant is partially shaded....But,,another plant directly in sun has set a few fruit..Only for them to split..I'm guessing temps as our temps have been in 90's for some time now..Mid 90's for past week,,and no relief in sight..Good luck,,hope you get a few to set..

6/22/2004 11:13:55 AM

Las Vegas

Well, I know its not over fertilizing, because I am pretty good with that. I guessed the heat too, so I sprinkle the entire patch a few times a day to cool it down and to create a more moist climate in the local area from the evaporation. I guess I'll have to get some ice out there. I planted Jack-be-littles too, and they're growing great despite the heat. They never get shade either. I just thought it was weird.

6/22/2004 11:18:19 AM

Ga.

My splits are from ferts..Not sun..Didnt want to mis lead about splits..Was just sayin plant in hot sun sets fruit....

6/22/2004 12:14:08 PM

In the shade - PDX, OR

I'd try keeping those females shaded and cool from the first time you see them.

Maybe check with Mr T - he seemed to have a simalar problem this year.

Hey Sean you out there?

6/22/2004 1:11:17 PM