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Minnesota

I planted the monster pumpkins again this year, but got no usable fruit this year. I live near Mpls, St. Paul, MN. I have always planted Atlantic Giant or Big Max in the past and have always grown pumpkins to about 75-92#. This year, I tried a different variety. I cannot remember the name of this year's variety.

The vines looked cracked and dry, right where they came out of the ground. The rest of the vine became dry looking as well.

A person at a garden center near us mentioned the possibility of a borer (insect) being the problem. Can any of you give me some ideas on what may have happened? If it was a borer, what can I do to prevent it next spring? What are some other possibilities?

I appreciate any help I can get.

Thanks,
Melon-Man

9/29/2002 5:27:10 PM

Garden State Pumpkins

Hey Melon-Man it does sound like a Squash Vine Borer SVB for short! Do a site search there are plenty of postings regarding them. Did you notice any bugs using the cracked vine as a superhighway running around? A good regimen of Sevin and Daconil will help next year. the Daconil just in case it's some sort of fungi! Grow em Big! Chuck

10/2/2002 2:27:10 PM

Minnesota

Chuck,

Thanks for the advice on the SVB! Now, there is hope for next year!

Melon-Man

10/2/2002 8:32:35 PM

Southern Illinois

hello melon man,plants cracked and dry,do you use any kind of herbicide.

10/3/2002 12:58:59 AM

Minnesota

Heavyhitter,

No, I use no herbicide whatsoever. Is this a problem?

Melon-Man

10/8/2002 4:53:12 PM