From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Europe

I am wondering, can a marrow pollinate a pumpkin? I have a fruit that was pollinated by the bees. Possible pollinators are two nice pumpkins and a giant marrow. Could I use the seed?

Thanks.

8/28/2010 5:31:35 PM

New York

What kind of pumpkin? Vegetable marrow belong to the species Cucurbita pepo, so in general, they can only cross-pollinate with other C. pepo varieties. Many field pumpkins belong to the same species. However, Big Max-type pumpkins (including Atlantic Giant and Show King) are C. maximas. Also, you'd still have to call it open pollinated, even if it is just a technicality; you can't be sure the plant is completely isolated.

8/28/2010 5:39:28 PM

Europe

It is an Atlantic Giant. You are right, it will be called openpollinated.
I am growing one AG and one marrow plant in this garden, there are no pumpkins far away (1 mile). I would like to plant the seed next year. What would you do if you were me?

Thanks.

8/29/2010 7:04:12 AM

Northern California Foothills

You can use the seed. Since you say there are no pumpkin plants nearby, it's a safe bet that is was self-pollinated.

8/29/2010 12:40:05 PM