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Belmont, WV

Hi everyone,
My personal best is a measured 600+ pounder and also had one measured at around 800 before it developed stem problems. I placed 2nd in WV in 2007 with a 500 pounder. That was my first real attempt at trying for a giant. Anyway here are my questions. The past 3 years I have been having two major problems and would really like to hear any opinions. It involves what to cover the pumpkin with and what to put under it. I have had better success with the pumpkin just growing on my soil. It seems like everytime I try sand or fiberglass board (or both) my pumpkins begin to slow and eventually die. So I was wondering if I need to use a different kind of sand that is courser than play sand or what? I know mill fabric is best but I don't have access to it. I also tried landscape fabric one year and was wondering if others tried it as well. Second is what to cover it with. I have always been told white sheets or create a tarp structure. I don't like the sheets because I like other's to see my pumpkins as they have became a local draw for my neighborhood. Just wondering what is the best way to tarp/ Any suggestions on either of these would be greatly appreciated. Happy growing in 2011-

4/15/2011 2:36:46 PM

valparaiso, in

I use play sand. Works great for me. I just stake some wood into the gorund and put a tarp over that to cover it up.

4/15/2011 6:25:22 PM