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Deer Park, WI

Conference organizers have graciously afforded me the opportunity to moderate a break-out session on Sunday. The organizers have also asked me (and presumably the audience as well) to defer all questions that arise during my formal presentation on Saturday to be addressed on Sunday in the break-out session.

Alas, I encourage those of you who plan to attend the "Science of the Giants" break-out session to come prepared with any questions you have regarding scientific aspects of growing giant pumpkins. Word has it that I'll be partnered with a reputable heavy hitter, such that answers to queries will benefit from both a scientific and practical experience perspective. How intuitive of the organizers to create such a dynamic!

Fever pitch is building here in the upper midwest. Exactly one week from this very moment, myself and a reputable heavy hitter who lays claim to the current WR will be 40,000 feet above a great lake, with a thirst for knowledge, commraderie, and of course, an ice cold beverage.

3/4/2011 10:44:18 AM

Garden State Pumpkins

Wish I could be there for that one! Love your insight to what it takes to grow "anything" hope this gets recorded for all of us who can't attend.

GrowEmBig! Chuck

3/4/2011 8:28:16 PM

New Zealand

joze long time bro missed your posts i gotta question what do you think of the old calcium on the blossom theory i got 3 weeks to comp and its raining

3/5/2011 5:06:05 AM

Deer Park, WI

Thanks guys, I appreciate the comments.

I do believe that calcium deficiencies in the blossom may contribute to splits and that increasing local calcium may be a preventative measure. However, as a general rule, calcium on the blossom is a flop. While good in theory, the science doesnt support the practice. This because calcium is simply unable to get to where it needs to. There's a "but" coming though...

I'm intrigued by "Nutri-cal" http://www.nutri-cal.com

This product is highly unique from other calcium products because the creators modify the calcium in a way that the plant readily accepts it and puts it to work.

I have spoken with their scientists, read their studies, and critically considered the science behind their product. Based on this information, it seems likely their form of calcium can be absorbed by fruit and leaves AND become somewhat mobile in these tissues.

I cannot tell you this product will prevent splits. I will say, however, that if I was concerned about a blossom end split, this would be a staple in my strategy to minimize risk.

Company reps suggested foliar/topical spray beginning at fruit set throughout the entire season. Every few days for frequency. Mix per container instructions for concentration.

No wet towels. Fruit need to breath just like you and I.

Hope this helps.

3/5/2011 7:27:53 AM