Re: pumpkins DIGEST V1 #28

Last night I started the pumpkin seeds by filing them.  Then placed them into separate wet paper towels in zip lock bags.  Then I placed the bags on top of a seed starter kit that I bought but never used.  The heating pad is in the bottom of the unit and I placed the baggies on top of an empty 48 count tray in the unit.  I did this based on a comment I read earlier about setting the seeds directly on the pad.  I also turned the portable heater up to 75 degrees.  I'll crank it to 80 when I put them in pots.  It's hard to keep the room regulated since it is in the basement, but the heater should help alot.  It really has been pretty cool here in the 'burbs of Chicago to plant.  The soil is very cool, but the weeds are sure popping.  I want to finish preparing the garden and was wondering about gypsum and/or soil conditioner.  I have alot of clay here even though I brought in 4 yards of top soil.  I was going to spread composted cow manure and mushroom
 copmost.  Any thoughts??

Debbie


________________________________
From: Petman <petman2@yahoo.com>
To: pumpkins@mallorn.com
Sent: Thursday, June 4, 2009 10:41:22 AM
Subject: Re: pumpkins DIGEST V1 #28

I use the wet paper towel method as well.  File the edges, soak for a couple
hours and then put in a paper towel that has had nearly all the water squeezed
out of it.  Then into a ziploc baggie and onto the DVD player.  I checked the
temp and it holds 85-90 which seems to work perfect.  Pop in 36-48 hours.  I
then lay them flat in prewarmed soil about 3/4 inch deep and keep that soil 85
or so until they are up.  I put mine in one of those blue plastic storage bins
with a 60 watt light bulb running to keep it warm.  I firmly believe that the
constant 85 +/- degrees is the key to fast germination and quick soil
breakthrough.

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