Subject: WHY CLONE? To those against
it
Seed
stock growing is the best method, I don't disagree with that. My clones that
others are growing is an experiment thing. Who wouldn't actually disagree
that if a method to keep a good seed stock alive for breeding was found to be
viable and useful, that someone would actually NOT be interested in such
a method? Come on... I am not growing any of my clones, but MANY, MANY serious
growers have encouraged me over the winter to keep them alive, and find a
way to grow them, as they wish to see what variations, if any, happen
once they re-enter the outside and start growing again. I have always been one
to try to better myself by keeping an open mind, and although I like to
use seed myself, I owe it to all the growers out there to continue this
important research this season. I only hope one day people realize that what
they might think is wrong, may not be quite as important than contributing
time & effort, which may possibly help out others in the long run.
There is no wrong in attempting to help others better themselves. Those who
feel I have wasted an entire winter doing this...well if I help save ONE
genetic masterpiece like the Checkon's had, and others benefit from this
method, then my time was well spent!
Oh...anyone wondering about differences in characteristics between clone and
original so far? Well, the noticeable difference is that the clone just
doesn't start off with huge leaves and vines, like the seed varieties do.
Once the clone has taken root, and starts running, then all seems to be
TOTALLY the same characteristic wise as the original. The only side effect
I have noticed so far, is that the clone shoots out females from the
moment it is planted. Such a horrible thing to have happen to a
grower...pumpkins starting too early in the year !!!
