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Alabama

Next spring I will use a bottleneck gourd rootstock that has been genetically engineered using a modified
"Arabidopsis" Ca(2+)/H(+) exchanger sCAX2B. I will graft a genetically altered scion that has had the growth and rind thickness DNA strands tripled in number. During the season I will foiler feed using the genetically engineered growth hormone regulater Forchlorfenuron. At seasons end I should have a 500lb watermelon. Better break out the chemistry books if you want to keep-up. :) sarc

I did update my diary so the photos should be on it tonight hopefully.

7/28/2012 5:06:55 PM

formerly RGG

You have some awesome plans Cliff. Grow baby grow !

7/28/2012 9:25:31 PM

Netherlands

What we currently do with pumpkins is inject lead pellets about an inch under the skin. To close the holes we inject enzym G7Fa (polytheropede conductorus) which attaches itself to the pumpkin cells much like the enzymes used in producing sandwich meat. The hole will grow closed and the scabbing which occurs is similar to hail damage. If the pumpkin is cut open during the show, the cavity will be empty and there will be no traces of the lead pellets.

7/30/2012 5:08:09 AM

Netherlands

For blossom end splits (or rib splits for that matter) we graft in pieces from a sacrificial pumpkin. The pieces have to be an exact fit and carefully coated in the above mention enzym. Before closing the hole, we push in a vinyl balloon with a double skin. This will seal the inside of the pumpkin off preventing air from getting at it. Furthermore you can add lead pellets between the two layers of skin. Once inside, it is simply a matter of inflating the balloon, sticking in the wedge and adding baby powder to keep the outside dry. The only problem is that some pumpkins will reject the grafted piece, so we are looking into injecting anti-rejection drugs, similar to those used in organ transplants.
Both lead pellet methods can add up to 100 lbs to the end weight of the pumpkin. Something similar must be possible with watermelons.

7/30/2012 5:14:37 AM

formerly RGG

lol

7/30/2012 7:21:15 AM

Bethlehem CT

This is just the kind of advice I have been looking for to bring me to the next level. I knew it, everyone has been keeping secrets.... LOL

7/30/2012 7:54:45 AM

formerly RGG

Have you guys been talking to Amelio ? LOL

7/30/2012 3:50:08 PM

Muddy Waters

Good one Dennis,maybe there related.

8/4/2012 9:25:42 PM