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Franklin, Tennessee

What should I know about growing giants in Tennessee here where the weather gets into the 100s sometimes during August?

I've heard it might slow the growth, but I always thought pumpkins and other cucurbits like hot weather. I hope you all can fill me in on how to care for the AG's during the heat of the summer next year (unless it turns out being like this year's cool summer). It will be my first attempt at growing a giant pumpkin.

10/16/2009 4:26:07 PM

Hot West Tennessee

Right here with you , irrigation will be the key for us.
Can't let them get to thirsty. Im am going with part soakers and part drip. Well see which works for me.
The Finders seem to have a handle on it. They will be more help. Good luck

10/16/2009 10:54:25 PM

Franklin, Tennessee

Sounds good. I think I will have to water by hand throughout the season. During the heat I will make it a priority to get out there every morning (or evening) to give them their drink.

10/16/2009 11:49:47 PM

Owensboro, Ky.

New state records set in several southern states(hot weather) this year...Carolinas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, forgive me if I forgot anyone!!! PM control is also an issue!!! Peace, Wayne
Best of luck in 2010!!!

10/17/2009 2:38:20 AM

Nicholls Georgia

mist mist mist

10/17/2009 9:39:47 AM

Las Cruces NM

Well hardly the SE but the southwest has simular issues (and noted records set last year as well. The diference here is a little hotter and less humidity. From my experiance PM is problem in cucurbits everywhere period. I believe it is part of senescence. But your higher humidity probably brings about downy mildew as well. Anyway, just sharing some observations since we been hitting 100+ lately.
1) first, there are two ways to deal with heat, that being shade cloth and mist. shade cloth cuts down light and so may cut down photosystheses ... but with big leaf pumpkins, what little is cut may not matter -- just something to consider. The second is mist, which I've just turned on (so can't tell results). I have it on 5m every half hour 12-5pm.
2) soakers, I have this too and I've noted it does help as leaves are not as droopy when soakers are on for 2hrs during heat of day. It seems enough to get them through; however, once fruit set, I'll probably run more consantly to keep even fruit development.

Anyway, just want to say I'm in the same boat. I've grown in the east and have to say it's nothing like growing in the SW! And being the SE, somehow I'm sure you know what I mean!

6/7/2010 2:12:53 AM