Obsession with Growing a World-Class Giant Pumpkin

The French have a phrase-idée fixe-meaning to be obsessed with an idea to the exclusion of everything else. There is probably no better explanation for the growing of giant-approximately one thousand pound-pumpkins. In fact, in some sense, growing giant pumpkins has become a "big business." Although growing giant vegetables isn't restricted to pumpkins, the pumpkin is iconic for what I would call Paul Bunyan gardening. At the peak time of growth, a giant pumpkin can grow thirty to forty pound a day-which is more than a pound per hour! Roland Evans offers valuable information for growing giant vegetables in the video The Secret of Growing Giant Vegetables.

The Ultimate Experience - the Giant Pumpkin

One quote of the day says, "To err is human, a pumpkin is Da' Vine." The most carefully chosen pumpkinseeds, though, won't grow a world-class pumpkin without considerable planning and investment. Seeds may now be bought online. Search reveals many willing providers and forums dedicated to doing just that. The correct choice must match the temperature requirements of the variety one chooses to those of the clime. Other factors include soil properties, pruning techniques, fertilization, fungal supplementation, water chemistry and application method, and protection from the elements.

What is Required to Squeak Out Maximum Growth?

Giant pumpkins should be started indoors well in advance of the outdoor season, with care in choosing pots, soil mix, and lighting. Pots must be large to avoid crowding of roots and only the strongest plants should be kept. Transplanting outdoors, moisture must be carefully controlled. A dry spell can dictate application of as much as a hundred gallons of water per plant. Pruning of tertiary vine branches prevents the plant's vitality from being sapped by multiple fruit. Sun canopies over the developing pumpkin prevent early fruit maturation and helps avoid cracking. Mycorrhizae fungus improves nutrient and moisture absorption considerably. Pests must be eliminated. Some suggest playing music to the potential winner-preferably classical. Anyone have a copy of Vivaldi's "Four Seasons?"

I'm not Interested in Giant Pumpkins

Although most of us will never till our land with the intent of growing a giant pumpkin, is there nothing in the idea that appeals to your lighter side? Why not consider one video just in fun before begging off? Allow me to suggest this distracting Meta Café video? There, you're hooked now-admit it.

References and Resources:

Daily Mail - Mail Online website - "Gourd almighty! The giant 1,600lb pumpkin that weighs more than a Fiat 500"

Big Pumpkins

Giant Pumpkins