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Idaho

Hi all. My name is Todd. I am new to the site but I have been growing pumpkins for 8 years or so. I am no expert. I just want to introduce myself and say "hi". I hope to contribute and post throughout the year. I am trying to really focus and be serious this year. I started growing pumpkins when my daughter was born and now we do it together. I have fallen in love with gardening and pumpkins (THE BIG ONES) are my passion. I have done my research and homework this offseason. I have done alot of things right in the past but using the right seed has not been one of them. Nothing like learning more about giant pumpkins and realizing that I've shot myself in the foot right from the start the past years. I have over-crowded too. This year I am growing only 2 plants. I have 2 garden areas with plenty of room. I will focus all my energies on 2 plants. So I did get a few seeds that would qualify as the "right" seeds....but I only have 3 total. Guess it's better than none. So here's what I have...
(1) 996# [1,092 Martin x 1,255 VanKooten
(1) 1,131# [1,014 Holland x 998 Pukos]
(1) 1,505# [1,385 Jutras x 1,142 VanKooten]

I am looking for some help and guidence now and then. I am no expert and look forward to learning from experienced growers. I am also excited to talk pumpkin and share my experience. I enjoy the bonds and friendships that can be formed through common interests and hobbies. Again, this is my first post and I am happy to meet you all.....
:)

1/26/2010 9:32:36 PM

Minnesota

Hi, welcome to Bigpumpkins, I'm no heavy hitter but, I would try and get a few more seeds, germination disasters do happen. (trouble germinating)

1/26/2010 10:31:16 PM

Idaho

Thanks Richard. I did manage to get some "backup" seeds from the P&P Seed Co. About 12. I only know that they are 800lb. plus seeds... don't know where or what they really are. I don't really have alot or resources for good seed as I am just now sharing and learning. Hopefully seeds will be easier to come by once I get to know a few fellow growers. So what are the most common germination issues? What are some potential disasters I should be looking out for?

1/26/2010 11:33:57 PM

Owensboro, Ky.

Pz, scroll down thru the main list, till you get to seed exchange. Read thru carefully, and I am sure you will find several posts that say...free seeds if you send a bubbleope!!! Hope this helps!! Peace, Wayne
PS...there is a chat line on this site!!!
PPS...beware, it get's a little excited on chat some nites!!! LOL

1/27/2010 12:46:28 AM

Bethel Ohio

Welcome Todd to one of the greatest accumulation of good people anywhere. You will find a multitude of growers, bothe in the Pacific Northwest and around the world who will be happy to supply you with both seeds amd ideas, advice and moral support in this sport. You have entered a fantastic sub-culture of some of the most talented, energetic, and open with advice people on the planet. Do not be timid about coming in chat, and always remember, a honest question will be responded to with a honest answer. Again, welcome to our world, have fun, and grow a monster

1/27/2010 9:29:53 AM

Pemberton, BC

Absolutely nothing wrong with those 3 seeds you listed, all great crosses. As Wayne said if you go through the seed exchange thread you'll see lots of free seeds for the price of a self addressed and stamped bubble envelope if your looking for more. Welcome to no summer vacations and many sleepless nights!

Chad

1/27/2010 9:35:04 AM

[email protected]

WELCOME!!! We're a close knit and supportive group. Check the diaries for some ideas. Has your soil been tested?

Steve

1/27/2010 10:04:23 AM

Idaho

Great info..... I suppose that navigating this site will be easier than navigating a giant pumpkin patch! I appreciate all the help... I really do. I have been testing my soil the past couple years and my Ph is a little high (last fall 7.5ish). I have been slowly adding agricultural sulphur the past 2 years. I think my Ph will be right on target this year. As for nitrogen, etc... this has been more difficult to correct but I have also been working on it. I have been increasing the amount of organic matter in my garden and I have learned alot about plant nutrition this winter. I think this year will be a big improvement for me in this area. This is also the second year that I have planted winter rye as a cover crop. Sound like I'm on the right track?

1/27/2010 11:55:55 AM

Colorado

Welcome pumpkinz,remember you can't grow a big one without a seed capable of going big.A seed that can go big wont unless you provide good soil,plant care etc.

1/27/2010 1:34:31 PM