RE: Seasons of the Witch

Joe,

I agree with you completely that there is more than just high
temperatures at work here and starting plants early will probably not be
cure-all. I have a plant I started in the third week of March that has
just set it's first 3 fruit this last week. The main vine is only about
17 feet, with relatively short stems and small leaves, and very little
side growth or secondary vines. Here in GA, we can go from frost to 90s
in about a month. Springs are usually pretty wet and cloudy with shorter
days. May is hot and dry. Both these conditions are less than optimal.
The plants don't know what the hell to think and usually suffer
accordingly with weak or shallow root growth. I started a plant very
early last year as well and ended up with the same results.

The soil in many areas of the south is not well suited for growing
pumpkins. Many areas have very hard, clay laden soils with low Ph
levels. Roots have a harder time penetrating. Other areas are very sandy
and leach nutrients rather quickly. Poor growing conditions of any type
will short the life span of any plant. Giving more attention to
balancing our soils properly will undoubtably boost performance and make
us more competitive. Generous amounts of organic matter seem to be in
order as are thorough soil testing.

While not the sole culprit, I do believe that temperature is a
SIGNIFICANT factor in determining the lifespan of our plants. Misting
has been used to cool the leaves. Soaker hoses can be used to help cool
the roots. Perhaps planting in a semi-shaded area could prove beneficial
as pumpkins are probably the most shade tolerant of the cucurbits. All
other things being equal, I believe an AG will grow larger where daytime
temps are 80-85 and evening temps hover around 60.

For those who have started their plants early and are setting fruit at
this time, your pumpkins will be growing throughout June and July. The
sun is at it's strongest at this time. Temps are just as high (if not
higher) as they are in August and September. There are probably more
insects and weed growth during this time than any other. In short, I
personally don't see any advantage. I would much rather have my
pumpkin's second month of growth be in September than July. An added
bonus is you're right on time for the weigh-offs. The downside is August
and September are probably the peak months for Downy Mildew and other
moisture related disease. Bump up the Daconil or sulphur use during
these months

I am shooting for a pollination date for my pumpkins around the last
week in July. This will give me a full two months worth of fruit growing
time. I started plants on March 20, May 15th, May 25th, and June 5th.
Only time will tell which date is the better choice.

See you at the weighoffs with the results.

Mike




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