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Darfield, British Columbia, Canada

I came back to growing last year after a break of several years and wondering if any one else has noticed lots of mutated genetics in their plants. Are there growers out there trying to breed plant quality back into the Atlantic Giant world? Out of the four plant I grew this year and last, 3 of them produce double vines, one produces flowers that are both male and female. I turned one plant into compost last year and might end up with another this year. Only one that stayed strong and healthy was store bought regular Atlantic Giant seed.
Short question is
-any one else seeing lots of plant mutations?
-any growers trying to focus on plant genetic health as well?
My concern is that the more watered down and mutated the genetics get we might have trouble growing healthy plants.
Thanks for taking the time to read this. Happy growing.

8/2/2022 8:28:09 PM

Colorado

Ive been growing AG's 25 years. My first year I had a plant with a ribbon/flat vine.Also in my first hand full of seasons some of the plants were brittle (vines would snap off).If your goal is a competition size or colored pumpkin, store bought seeds wont cut it.Id suggest using seeds with a history.Ask around about problems with flat vines,steritity on the genetic lines that are out there. I havent seen more mutations over the last 25 years.You cant grow a true giant on a unhealthy plant so that is a self correcting situation selection wise.Its more of a nurture dilemma to keep a 1000 sq ft of vines and s leaves healthy long enough to grow 2000 lbs of pumpkin.

8/3/2022 10:28:25 AM

Colorado

For plant quality/health I like what ive seen with 1501 vanderwielen and 1885werner lines.

8/3/2022 4:31:29 PM