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What type sheet material is best to use for covering the pumpkin to protect the skin from the sun? I had tarp type set-ups in the past but it does generate some heat under it and also the leaves that are closest to the pumpkin are also shaded which will make those leaves have no photosynthesis benefit. But the main benefit of the tarp was keeping the pumpkin dry. Also does anyone have any input on a better way for a tarp set-up that is not as hindering as mention above? Thanks for everyone's input and have a great pumpkin season!

7/9/2025 8:35:32 AM

Little-TON - Colorado

White sheets work well. Reflect the sunshine, and dry out fast once wet. they tuck in well around the pumpkin and also keep the rabbits from the pumpkin as well.

7/9/2025 9:59:13 AM

Menomonie, WI ([email protected])

An Egyptian Poly Cotton blend with 600 thread count, only the best for the girls. I have never had an issue with the sheet trapping too much moisture.

7/19/2025 10:10:18 AM

Lebanon

A little late to the party, but I firmly believe that dark green sheets do the best at protecting the pumpkin.

8/23/2025 10:16:04 PM

Syracuse, NY

Showmepumpkins---Terrific. I do not shade my fruits although I used to; Usually not big enough to put forth the effort, although I do have ones over the years that didn't seem to be affected by not doing so. I should, could and would. Orange ones are coloring up great, unshaded. Great to hear of anything other than the norm. In my dream world, 100% blocking with a suPPortEd tarp and then any other color or even white would supplement. Maybe orange for squash and green for pumpkins? Ha Ha. I like it all and I do have a squash that is lighter green due to no shading, I'm sure. I don't think I have ever, ever seen other than white sheets on AGs. Wow. Good talk, lol---eric g

[Last edit: 08/24/25 4:21:07 AM]

8/24/2025 4:13:53 AM