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Montana

Hello everyone. This is my first year trying to grow pumpkins. I'm not looking for a world record just something for my three year old daughter. I planted about twenty seeds and all of them came up and seem healthy. From the tip of one leaf to the oher is about 12-14". I have noticed in a few of the leaves there are holes(maybe half the size of a dime?) Any ideas on what I should use against the insects to stop this or what they can be? I live in NW Montana. I planted these things around 1 month ago. I also do not know how often I should water..everyday? If so for how long?
I read somewhere that you can Miracle Grow them twice a week..is that ok? That's what I have been doing.
If somebody could enlighten me I would surely appreciate it. Thanks!!!

6/25/2000 10:54:07 PM

Connecticut, USA

Twenty seeds is a ton. You could take out every other plant and still be over run with vines. I water mine every day for an hour (via soaker hoses). How much you need to water is very dependent on your soil type. Examine your plants for insects. If you find munching beetles get some Sevin. Be sure and read the instructions on the package for proper dosage.

6/26/2000 6:48:13 AM

Modesto, CA

Also, you'll want to allow anywhere from 20 to 40 feet for your patch and just one plant requires a lot of time and effort. Miracle Gro works good and I use mine about every 2 weeks. I also use this fish/seaweed emulsion from Neptune's Harvest Products (which can be found online). I highly recommend that you get a copy of How to Grow World Class Giant Pumpkins book from Don Langevin. Check Amazon for his book. It tells you everything you'll need to know about growing. For a pesticide, Sevin works great or I also use Bug B Gone by Ortho. I don't have any problems yet with Squash vine borers or cucumber beetles but I have a big problem keeping white flies under control....Good Luck to you!

Monica

6/26/2000 6:34:45 PM