Re: Fw: under pumpkin
In a message dated 5/19/2000 12:27:10 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
mlvd311@key-net.net writes:
<< What is the preferred material used underneath the pumpkin to keep it
from
> rotting,and at what stage do I need to get it under it?
> Thanks >>
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Mike...this is an opinion question......some like sand because it allows the
pumpkin to grow and push the sand away,drains easily,and is easy to add more
as the fruit grows.I prefer 1.5-2" thick styrofoam boards....available for a
couple dollars at home Depot...(free at the jobsite.) As soon as the fruit
looks like its set I put a 2x2 foot board down underneath it...I add pieces
as the fruit grows.I also add wedges as needed made of this styrofoam to get
the stem end up in the air a bit allowing for less stem stress.When I put
the first board down,I allow for a slight crowning of the soil so as the
pumpkin grows it has a very very sight convex surface to grow on....this
allows any water to drain away from the pumpkin.Tendency might be for the
pumpkin to depress the ground/styrofoam as it gets heavy ,thus creating a
slight birdbath beneath the pumpkin which is not good.
Some people use plywood,others cardboard,some nothing.Some put a pallet
down and grow on that.(not recommended by me). I like the styrofoam.....G
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