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Syracuse, NY

Biggest I've grown was when I was around 8 years old. I'm 42 now and am getting serious about getting one at least as big as a volleyball.

Here is my plant http://www.franklinip.com/pumpkinpg/

My question is: How should I prune this to promote the growth of three or 4 pumpkins. There are two vines intertwined here, do I have to worry about pollination or should a pumpkin form with what I have? Thanks, Mike.... the Rodney Dangerfield of pumpkin growers.

7/7/2004 4:17:15 PM

northern indiana

I would train the vines to grow off in separate directions like a V shape or if possible at 90 degrees to each other. Most folks seem to recomend pruning every other secondary (the first ones off the main vine, in this case you would have 2 main vines) This promotes larger leaves and more room to move about the plant. Then if I were wanting 4 fuit I would grow one on each main vine and one on a strong seconary off each main. You can let the bees pollenate or do it yourself as far as that is concerned, it just depends on if you want to controll the genetics of the seeds you get. You might want to pollenate (or let the bees do it) all females and then pick the best ones to keep. Don Langevin's books on How to grow world class pumpkins are a huge help. Tons of info. Your local bookstore may be able to order them for you but likely wont carry them. There are links on this site to find them.
Welcome to the wonderful world of giant pumpkins! It is very addictive though. Good luck.
Eric

7/7/2004 8:57:45 PM

Syracuse, NY

Thanks for the info, OK I'll guide those vines. I don't want/need/have the materials to control the genetics at this point, but I don't see a lot of bees around, it is not the city here but not the country either. What are the chances bees will take care of it under those conditions? Is pollinating as easy as taking the material and rubing it on there? I'll look closer tomorrow when I can see. So basically I should wait to see what forms and go from there I guess. After I have some good fruit started then cut the rest? Thanks

7/7/2004 9:36:03 PM

Ga.

I'd bet your chances are great..Look in morning if you have blooms..I'd bet you have more bee's than you think...
Jeff

7/7/2004 10:52:00 PM