From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Quebec

Hello fellow growers, during the last couple of years there has been an upsurge in popularity with bushel gourds. Many growing clubs have had discussions, articles in newsletters, and have been passing out seeds to their memberships. Because of this interest the GPC would like to have a trial year this season. For this year bushel gourds will be allowed to be entered in the Master Gardener competition. It will be the seventh category and it will now be 5 of 7 to qualify instead of 5 of 6. This will help more growers qualify for this highly competitive contest. Bushel gourds are widely adaptable and can do well in many growing climates. We know it is a little late in doing this but really there is no perfect time to do this with growers competing all over the world. Should Doug English's world record of 279.5 pounds be beaten, a plaque and $250 prize will be awarded. If the interest continues to rise then they will become an official category next year. The rules for heavy gourds will be posted on the GPC website shortly. Good luck to everyone this season! Todd Kline

4/24/2017 7:01:05 AM

Central Minnesota

I am assuming this was announced to everyone earlier and I missed it because this seems very late for this time of change.

4/25/2017 3:22:22 PM

Quebec

No this was not announced to anyone earlier. This just was decided at the last meeting and I put it out there the day after. You still have time, no need to start your plants for another week or two. Everyone is in the same boat. Good luck if you decide to jump in.

4/25/2017 7:32:05 PM