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Anchorage, Alaska

If it was possible to hold a pumpkin plant at one ideal temperature, what would that temperature be? Also, does a pumpkin require a certain amount of rest(darkness) during the day or would 24/7 daylight be the ideal?

11/17/2010 1:16:11 AM

Farmville, Virginia ([email protected])

In my opinion a steady 90 degrees would be awesome. Plants and fruit do the majority of their growth during the night hours so this isn't a "rest" period. 24/7 daylight would not be good.

11/17/2010 7:02:08 AM

Deer Park, WI

Sherm- as stated in my previous reply to your request, scientists have determined that 85 degrees is the optimal temperature at which most temperate plants function. This includes pumpkins. Plants do require some cooling in order to shift from photosynthesis during the date to respiration at night. it has been suggested that nighttime temps between 65-70 degrees are optimal.

Darkness is also necessary for the plant. It senses daylight (or the absence of it actually) and determines its reproductive cycle (flowering, etc) based on an internal clock. 24 hr light would be detrimental to the plant, as it would not know when to make hormonal shifts necessary to a normal growth pattern.

11/17/2010 7:24:40 AM

Anchorage, Alaska

Thanks for the insights. This is a great site!

11/19/2010 11:53:21 PM