This is a public-interest archive. Personal data is pseudonymized and retained under GDPR Article 89.

This year will be the one


My story (here's a little contrast to all the "big hitters" out there):

Every year for the past 5 or 6 I have tried to grow a 100 lb'er.  I've never
gotten beyond 58.  That should tell you something about my level of
expertise.  But I do work at it with my small, much-shaded, backyard.  It's
either bugs, or fungus, or stupidity on my part that holds me back.

This year I ordered seeds from P&P (Zehr 968, Bobier 800).  I germinated
then in successfully in sterile potting soil in a shielded area outdoors
(in the past I germinated indoors, then the plants seemed to go into major
shock for 2-3 weeks after transplanting, due to sun or cold?).  Well I've
transplanted them, and put small shelters over each (it's pretty hot here in
Orange County, California now).  The plants look good and are starting to
grow right off the bat.  This is a big improvement over prior years.

Now I must figure out how to feed and water.  I've read much but it hasn't
fully
sunk in yet (translation:  what do I buy, how exactly do I mix and apply it,
etc).
Also to keep away the bugs and fungus.  Early years powdery mildew killed me,
but the last couple years I've managed that.  Now it's some sort of small
(1/8th
inch), burrowing orange fly maggot causing tremendous damage, so I suppose
I've got to spray Sevin or something to control that.

And then, who knows?  100 lbs would make me happy.  I don't need 1000 (but
I'd take one that size too!)  Well, whatever size I get, I'll still go to the
back yard
the first thing when I get home from work to say hello to the "boys," and
also in
the morning before I leave.  And spend hours each weekend out there doing
whatever I can to urge them on.  It's great fun.

...Paul
Orange County, CA
Follow-Ups:
Other Mailing lists | Author Index | Date Index | Subject Index | Thread Index