From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Montgomery County, Pennsylvania

First timer here, southeast Pennsylvania. I'm trying to decide which giant pumpkin plant should be my primary in my limited space, about 500 square feet. I have a 656 Domke that was transplanted May 5th, has now vined out to about 8 feet (as of June 5th), growing fast with several foot long secondaries. I also have a 1526 Miller (appears to have superb genetics like 2365 and 2493 Wolf's, 2174 Daletas, 2702.9 Cutrupi, etc). It looks like a strong plant but unfortunately is about 2 weeks behind in starting the seed and has not laid down a vine yet. What will likely be the more important factor: genetics or the two week late start? I have about 2 weeks to decide before one plant has to become the primary (using the other as a pollen source rather than a self pollinate). Thanks!

6/5/2025 9:41:00 AM

Germany

I would stick with the proven genetics, as long as that plant doesn´t make any obvious troubles. Just imagine one of them would add another 4 lbs more a day than the genetically less equipped plant (over the course of maybe 60 days of fruit growth), which adds up to 240 lbs. That´s probably more than the loss because of a slightly later pollination. Also, even though one seedling is two weeks younger it doesn´t mean that it will always be two weeks behind. Transplanted later, into warmer soil, starting with a bit more sunshine, this could make it grow a stronger root system from the very beginning and it might help the plant to accelerate to some extent. You need to compare the current appearance of your 1526 Miller plant with the appearance of the other plant two weeks ago. Is the 1526 really two weeks behind, or is it just two weeks younger (but already relatively stronger for its young age)?

6/5/2025 10:57:59 AM

Syracuse, NY

Either weigh, grow them each with love 'cause I think yer on the train to Orange Town, lol! Good Luck---eg

6/5/2025 3:19:03 PM

Montgomery County, Pennsylvania

Thanks to both! And yes EG, I did select my seeds based on the beautiful classic orange pumpkin look I saw in examples from both lineages. I figured if I don't have the space or experience to shoot for a huge one, might as well go for looks. I will post my decision here when the time comes and eventual results. -Andy

6/5/2025 6:47:04 PM

Syracuse, NY

(*_*)---eg

6/5/2025 10:51:14 PM