From

Location

Message

Date Posted

East Sussex, UK

If the first true leaf is deformed is that sufficient cause to de-select a plant? i.e. Should I choose a different plant for the top spot even if the one with the deformed first true leaf germinated and emerged first?
I've posted a picture in my diary.

4/14/2022 6:19:27 AM

Menomonie, WI (mail@gr8pumpkin.net)

it is a sign normally something is up with your growing conditions. I would not throw out a pumpkin based on that

4/14/2022 7:36:11 AM

Bethlehem CT

I agree give it a chance, most likely it will straighten out with some time.

4/14/2022 8:14:57 AM

East Sussex, UK

Thanks guys. Good luck to you both this year!

4/14/2022 8:18:03 AM

Colorado

You can have funny shapes with first three or four leaves and the plant can straiten itself. When you start seeing leaves coming in something other than single file then its time to pay attention.

4/14/2022 9:39:34 AM

Springfield, VT

The cots and first couple of leaves can be deformed from to much water

4/14/2022 10:15:47 AM

Springfield, VT

in the potting soil or paper towel also early fertilizer

4/14/2022 10:17:23 AM

Grittyville, WA

I have theorized that excessive dessication or freeze damage within the seed might affect the first leaf. It would be nice to be able to judge a plant so early but if you can, I would try to get it to the stage where you are measuring the growth rate of the main vine, after the plants are in the ground. Even then its a hard choice, because you cannot see the roots, and the plant having the best roots might be the better choice over the one that is growing the fastest. I think choosing the right plant is part of this hobby where luck still trumps logic.

4/14/2022 12:44:33 PM