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Williamsburg,KY

Yesterday, I was able to get in the patch an do some pruning. I found lots of white roots near the soil surface between the vines, not the root that comes from the leaf node. I have never seen this before but then I never worked so hard on a patch before. Should I be concerned about this? Should I cover these little roots with some soil, compost or what? Thanks for your help. Croley Bend

7/10/2008 10:53:55 AM

Bloomington, IN

Good question, I've noticed the same thing in my patch but didn't know whether or not I should be concerned.

7/10/2008 11:04:36 AM

Western NY

those roots are all part of the pumpkin's vast rooting system. I try to cover them back up with compost or more dirt when they start popping up (usually after a few wet days), because it will simply encourage more rooting. more roots is better.

7/10/2008 11:15:22 AM

Dillsburg, PA

We have had very little rain in June under 1 inch while 2 miles away they have had over 3 inches. My soil has become very hard. Now in July we have had over 2 inches already. As soon as the thunderstorm came a day later I had roots coming up for air all over the place. Has your soil become compacted?

7/10/2008 11:31:32 AM

Bloomington, IN

It could just be the result of soil erosion, because everywhere I see roots are in spots where rain has washed away the soil a little. In that case the soil could also have compacted some.

7/10/2008 11:36:46 AM

Www.extremepumpkinstore.com

Toss some mycorrhiza on them and cover them.

7/10/2008 11:47:16 AM

Anamosa, IA [email protected]

I saw that last night on one plant also. No erosion. I think the soil is just so super saturated that the roots are trying to get some air. I do like the idea of micorrhiza, as you are sure to get it in the right spot.

7/10/2008 1:09:33 PM

Williamsburg,KY

Boy, Im glad Im not the only one noticing this. I did use some mycorrhiza when I planted and buried side vines. We have had lots of rain on and off for a week. Total rain for July 1.5". My soil is not compacted, nor is it eroding or puddling water. I havent walked on it without boards and even under the boards the soil is not compacted. I did make a mistake with my big foot and lost my balance and stepped in the soil, it was soft and fluffy... I have some ProMix BX and may mix in some worm castings, apply my mycor cover with soil. Great idea Tom. Im glad I asked this question. Thanks everyone. Croley Bend

7/10/2008 2:29:08 PM

Western Pa.

Just be sure you don't hit those roots with roundup! Been dere, done dat!

7/10/2008 9:41:36 PM

I google'd mycorrhiza and learned it's like a fungus.? is this a good fungus?

7/11/2008 12:01:54 AM