From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Bolton Mass

I'm wondering if anyone can advise regarding a site for a pumpkin patch. The only suitable place in our yard (not too close to the road and receiving enough sun and not on top of the leech field for the septic system) is near the septic leech field. There may be a pipe out to the septic system running underneath that site. My question is if anyone knows how deep/how big the roots of a giant pumpkin get. (I have not grown one before.) I am wondering if I need to worry about the roots in regard to the underground pipe--the main tap root as well as any additional tap roots that may be sent down from the vine if I let it grow out onto the leech field. Any advice would be appreciate. Thanks.

5/29/2009 7:33:34 AM

Wilmington.Ma.

I grew in a place like yours some years ago the main vine hit a glory hole! You could almost see it grow.

5/29/2009 8:37:16 AM

Tinykinville

I have been growing over a septic line for 3 years now and have had no problems. Pumpkin roots are not thick or tough enough to block the pipe and they seem to love it there. last two pumpkins were 783 and the other was 840 when it blew up. other wise it was probably going to hit about a 1000. I highly recommend planting it there. No worries.

5/29/2009 4:40:30 PM

Sloughhouse, CA

I grow over my septic system. It is not a sept tank but a trans-evaporation system. Since I don't plan on eating any of the giants no problem. Also if your timers go out the water will save your plants.

5/31/2009 9:09:49 PM

Bolton Mass

Thanks, everybody! I will go ahead and plant in that spot.

Another question about site preparation: I am planning to make a bed for the pumpkin with (free) composted manure. Is it ok to plant in compost only, or do I need to mix with additional topsoil? Or add lime or other amendments? This is horse manure and pine shavings, which have been sitting for 2 years, but the pile doesn't get attended to, so I am not sure whether it has really composted or just decomposed, if that makes a difference. The soil itself is pretty poor, with unsuccessful lawn (weeds prevailing). Thanks.

6/1/2009 12:13:12 AM