From

Location

Message

Date Posted

San Diego

My pumpkin has reached its final weight (550 lbs) and is still on the vine, and the plant is healthy. Now I have to keep it from rotting until October. What is the best way to keep a pumpkin from rotting? Leave it on the vine as long as possible, or cut it off? It is sitting on play sand with good drainage. Thanks in advance for any advice! - Kevin

8/29/2012 9:44:35 PM

Torrance, Ca.

Was wondering the same thing Kevin???

8/29/2012 9:46:39 PM

Joliet, IL

I have the same scenerio every year guys....and here are my thoughts. Tarp over pumpkin.....high tarp. You want good wind flow. Hotter days use a sheet with high tarp. Less heating equals less possible evaporation.
Check stem closely...try to keep dry even from sideways rains. Keep watering regularly. Basically, prevent rot opportunites....on vine, stem, and bottom.

8/29/2012 10:25:46 PM

Torrance, Ca.

Thanks shazzz!!!!!!!!!!

8/29/2012 10:36:06 PM

San Diego

Thanks for the tips! Luckily we have relatively little rain here in SoCal, and I hope this results in less chance for rot.

8/30/2012 1:35:15 PM

canal winchester ohio

I like to use the farm markets fridge unit. Don't lose almost any weight that way. I got to make reservations for my largest incase it comes off early

8/30/2012 1:56:37 PM