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Denver, CO

From all that I have read, we here in Colorado are in a classic situation that leads to splits. We have got 1 to 2 inches of rain over the last 3 days, with temps never getting higher then the mid 60's. Now, tommorrow is going to be 84 degrees, then 91, 93, 92 for the next set of highs.

Is there any preventative measures that can be made in these situtations? Or are my fruits at the mercy of mother nature? Is it the rapid expansion and shrinking of the fruit that we are worried about?

Thanks!
[email protected]

7/31/2009 11:25:11 PM

Rhode Island

stem splits and cracks where the stem connect to the main can be controled somewhat by eliminating stress. for example
repositioning fruit
cutting additional tap roots
terminating main after the fruit

splits that occur in the area where the stem connects to the fruit or at the blossom end can be very dangerous however.you are really at the mercy of mother nature and the fruit itself.
once a split starts in these areas theres not a heck of a lot we can do except hope for the best.

splits at the stem end have a much better chance to make it because the fruit is thickest there . splits even tiny ones in the blossom usually spell doom if you get a good growth surge bnecause the blossom is usuually the thin walled area of the fruit
thats been my experience with splits.

the absolute worse thing though is the sag line (dill ring)
(internal crack) ( looks from the outside like a indentation around the fruit)
when this internal crack intersects with the pumpkins rib (especially a deep rib ) you are likely to blow a small pin hole through to the cavity. game over.

8/1/2009 7:57:25 AM

in the past ive cut 1/4 inch of ends of sidevines and let them drip out some water/ sap what ever you might call it
but now i enjoy the ride it can really boost your weight those types of rain and heat its kinda nights you toss and turn for some reason

8/1/2009 9:17:56 AM

Rhode Island

don id like to take my kubota and toss and turn all over the patch. i still may --lol
my best to you champ.
pap

8/1/2009 5:12:26 PM

Denver, CO

Thanks for the adivce guys. Looks like insominia is making a comeback at my house!

By the way, if anyone has not seen Don Young's diary, with the pictures of his, ummm, Great Dane, next to his pumpkins you need to do so. Haven't laughed that hard all season!

8/2/2009 11:52:16 AM

Oklahoma State Record Holder

It seems that Don can grow big pumpkins but only dinky dogs. LOL

8/2/2009 3:17:15 PM