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Princeton Kentucky

First year attempting a long gourd and was wondering if any of you veteran LG growers could tell me, #1 question, Do I need to encourage the main or first vine to the top to lay down or will it eventually do it on its own. It is @ 13.5 ft up or over 160 inches and on the top of my LG set up. Its getting the first female on and #2 question, Should I try to pollinate the first female that appears? I simply haven't found any writing on these two particular subjects with the LG's. Thanks!!

6/22/2014 9:39:28 AM

Lexington, Ky

I have always used a zip tie or string to ease the main down to the top of the trellis. There is no wind protection on my trellis once the plant reaches the top. The tendrils will likely grab hold at some point but I won't take the risk. Matter of fact, I zip tie my main all the way up, across and then back down the other side.

I would pollinate the first (and any) female. Reason one is for a controlled pollination. Reason two, you may not have and bugs/moths this time of year to get an open pollination.

6/23/2014 12:12:48 PM

Princeton Kentucky

Thanks for the reply 1320, I have strong velcro straps I use like your zip ties all the way up and I'm using for slowly convincing the vine to lay down up top. Just wasn't sure beings the first year to grow these. We have daily pollinator bees here now that are hitting the blooms so I did cover the blossoms prior to opening, both male and female for control. Thanks Again!!

6/23/2014 1:17:19 PM

Lexington, Ky

Long gourd flowers open late evening and I rarely see a bee around any of mine. Not saying you won't get an open pollination however, I would consider a controlled attempt.

6/23/2014 2:21:02 PM

Lexington, Ky

http://www.bigpumpkins.com/Diary/DiaryViewOne.asp?eid=140901

6/23/2014 2:26:44 PM

Princeton Kentucky

Yes I do controlled pollinations. I use small zip sanwich bags and put several tiny holes in them with forks to keep down temp and humidity. That keeps the moths and bees out. Our bees hang around until about 7:30- 8:00 pm here when its warm or hot. Thanks!!

6/24/2014 6:10:41 AM