From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Rhode Island

i cant help but notice many posting here that pretty much all relate to grower inexperience.we all had to go through it and these GROWING PAINS can be very discouraging.
it will make all your work worthwhile and just might give you that big pumpkin you wanted.
some of our hobbies best growers were unheard of just a few short years ago. id bet each one would tell you that their success did not happen by accident, or by planting and hoping for the best.in this hobby many times you make your own luck.luck to me is missing a hail storm or hurricane. growing is a matter of education and hard work.
here is a simple guide for you.

1.read as much as you can get your hands on. giant pumpkin books,soil health books,plant diseases and prevention as well.
2.plants will only grow as good as the soil they are grown in. so have your soil tested and follow the advise.
3.find a good grower in your area and ask them for a visit.
develop friendships with face to face look sees and you will learn a lot faster.
4.if theres a club in your area? join it. make friends and ask for help.two heads are always better than one.
5.seeds? there are plenty of good ones available just for the asking or if you prefer available at auction or group /club sales.remember though, to the new grower the how to is much more important then the seed itself.

pap

7/21/2012 10:25:46 AM

East Jordan, MI

AS always, very sage advice.
Thanks.

7/21/2012 10:57:31 AM

Baker City Oregon

And I think of all the things I have done different this year from years past and the difference shows up in my patch. I won't be setting any records this year but my plants are just phenomenal compared to any year I have been growing. Though there are still disappointments and "shoulda,woulda,coulda's" I am still pleased and encouraged. Takes a lot of work and education and a few trials and lots of errors.

7/21/2012 11:54:32 AM

Nsw

I wish there was a 'Pumpkin Scene' here in rainy England ;)

7/21/2012 12:06:33 PM

Omaha, Ne.

Pap. Thanks so much for all of your time to us newbie's. Your continued stream of information and encouragement all year. It has been my most valuable tool.

7/21/2012 1:37:12 PM

Torrance, Ca.

What Darren said times two!


Thanks pap!

7/21/2012 5:34:21 PM

Portsmouth, RI

Very good advice pap. Reading during the winter months has helped me and asking question. This is my 5th year growing and I try not to drive Ron crazy with my questions.
Thanks Ron and Pap. Bob

7/22/2012 9:05:09 AM

Rhode Island

bob theres a reason you have continued to grow bigger and higher in the ri pumpkin pecking order.your putting in the work,investing in supplies,doing the reaserch and are not afraid to ask questions.thats a powerfull combination.
pap

7/22/2012 9:40:13 AM

Deerfield, Michigan

First year growers like me look forward to all pap's advice. I just wish I was retired and had 40 more hours a week to put into my patch. Looking forward to a great 2012 weigh-off.

7/23/2012 1:45:36 AM