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Heat Stress and Shade

Hi All,

Seth wrote:
>I too am concerned about overheating the plants.  from noon to 3:00 or
4:00 in 
>the afternoon later on in the summer is when we get the worst heat.  I
don't see
>that it would be too much of a problem if you had afternoon shade for your 
>plants.

>> pumkinguy@aol.com wrote:
>>Most pumpkins are temperature sensitive and will not set fruit at elevated 
>>temperatures. Some pumpkins are more sensitive than others. With Atlantic 
>>Giants and many field pumpkins, if you have 90 degree days and 70 degree 
>>nights, you will have trouble. <snip> When the weather cooled back down to 
>85 >degrees, almost all plants set fruit. 

I talked to the owner of three large nurseries in our area. He is very
aware of giant pumpkins and gourds. Here is what he said about the high
heat temperatures.

Just like humans, plants get hot when the temperatures soar. Humans drink
lots of ice tea, lemonade, water, etc. to keep up with the increased need
for liquid due to dehydration.

Pumpkins have the same needs. When we overhead water during the heat of the
day, we are supplying the plants with the additional liquid that they need
because of evaporation.

He said that planting our pumpkins and gourds where they would get
afternoon shade was perfect for the plants.

Just thought I would share and Welcome aboard, Seth. I think you will enjoy
the pumpkin list.

Jeanie
Gourds By Jeanie 
jdixon@oneworld.owt.com
http://www.owt.com/users/jdixon
Pasco, Washington USA
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