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I have a question about crossing AG's. I understand people cross to try and take the best traits from each pumpkin to form a new seed (like a big pale oval kin with a smaller round orange kin. My big question is why do growers who are just looking for maximum size cross two pumpkins? I mean if I had a 1725 Harp wouldn't it be better to self pollinate if I was just going for size or I am missing something like inbreeding amongst plants. Thanks and am anxious to know as I have often wondered why people cross when they are looking for just size.

8/17/2011 8:30:05 AM

Colorado

NPG some growers like selfing- some have had bad experiences with selfed seeds.Selfing isnt as preditable as you might think.Sometimes theres a bad unknown recessive trait that will show up in a selfed seed fruit that didnt express itself in the parent.Some growers make crosses hoping the mix of two plants might show vigour and increased weights. No right or wrong way of doing it.

8/18/2011 3:10:56 PM

Owensboro, Ky.

NPG, at our growers seminar...Feb, 2011...a renowned geneticist...told us about the "pundit squares" which revealed that no two seeds are exaktly the same!!! I almost went to sleep, but sorta remember that no 2 seeds in any AG are exaktly the same? Sorta goes back, to the old "Golden Seed" Theory? In the long run...I truly believe that the criss crossing has been a MAJOR success!!! Wowzers, what other sport/hobby has set new world records every year, for 10 years in a row (except 1), other than Howard Dill's Atlantic Giant Pumpkins!!!? Peace, Wayne

10/15/2011 3:31:40 AM