Two Pumpkin Questions

17 years ago

Last year we tried to grow pumpkins for Jack-o-lanterns and it was a disaster. First, we planted too early. The pumpkins got large very quickly. Second, the squash bugs eventually killed the plants and attacked the pumpkins which were sitting out in the garden. I'd like to try something different this year. When should I plant to get good pumpkins for Halloween? Also, has anyone tried using systemic insecticides on pumpkins? We're not going to eat them or eat the seeds so I'm not worried about using the insecticide. I can put them in a seperate place in the field since we have 10 acres and I've been told that the deer will leave them alone.

Thanks,

Rick

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Comments (4)

farmerdilla
17 years ago
No systemics, If you use a chemical pesticide it will have to be a contact one. Squash bugs are difficult, contact your county agent for are commendation if you decide to go that route. Where I grew up ( Fluvanna County about 20 miles east of Charlottesville) we planted pumpkins when we laid the corn by ( Late June-Early July)
ten_yr_plan
17 years ago
zone 4 here and we did pumpkins for the first time last yr. early june stuck A ROW of seeds into ground. grew nice. by aug they were taking over 1/2 my garden. we 'laughed lots' over my ignorance. but we did get almost a dozen carving sized squash (gave many to friends w kids) and another dozen we preped & froze for pies. this yr i've studied prunint & pinching!
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cookie8
17 years ago
Really, the deer with leave them alone? They love them where I am.
hanselmanfarms
17 years ago
deer do not like to walk thru the leaves, coons either. but the fruit near the edge is "candy" for them. Extra pumpkins can be fed to cows also as treats.