Oregon Update 1999

Greetings all,
The last pumpkin was pushed over the hill of doom today, and the first
fertilizer was put on the patch for 1999.  The 1999 seeds will be planted in
under 5 months now, so there is no time to lose.  Competition is really
heating up in the PNW.  I just caught wind that 28 pumpkins were grown over
700 pounds in the PNW, and a 900 pounder would have only netted a grower 7th
place overall.  Yikes!!  Although we still don't stack up to you fellows east
of the rockies with all the 1000+ pounders, it is still a challenge to try and
beat the LaRues, Joel, Lincoln, and Kirk.\
Seed trade is going well, the 1092 has elluded me so far, but I have my
fingers crossed.  As I look ahead to seed selection for 1999, I find myself
with an easier task than I had last year.  I busted my butt trying to acquire
the 567.5, and other hard to getters, but now with those hard to get seeds
totally depleated it is time to move on.  I took note of some things this year
for traits to look for above and beyond the norm, and will put them to the
test in 1999.  
Some things I learned this year... Yes, you can run two plants in one site
christmas tree style in opposite directions.  In fact it works quite well and
increases the genetics available for crosses.  Does it take away from
potential????, No, 662 pounds 38 days from a blossom in the PNW is pleanty for
me.  I learned to not slack off, the minute a plant gets ahead of you, your
shot.  Symmetry is the key, keep things orderly, 90 degree angles a must.
Yes, you can overfertilize an atlantic giant pumpkin.  Root developement is
paramount.  Till deep, 12-15 inches, if the soil is loose, the roots will go
threre.  Don't panic with plant symptoms.  Treat them, but don't overtreat.
Don't cut off your arm if your finger itches.  
Well I  was thinking out loud and decided to share my thoughts.  If someone
gets just a tid bit of new insite, then it was worth while.
Take Care,
Brett  The Pumpkinguru  Hester
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