From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Tennessee

Hello, I am new to planting AG's and let the bee's pollinate last year, but I really want to make certain crosses this year. I will be gone on vacation this year from June 20-27 and have a friend caring for plants. My question is when should I start my seeds indoors to make sure pollination happens after the 27th. I know there may or may not be other opportunities at later date but I want to give them most growing time I can.
Thanks

3/18/2014 9:04:55 PM

Austin MN

I would suggest around a week latter than when most growers start. I say an actual date but it all depends on weather

3/18/2014 9:47:51 PM

Wixom MI.

It usually takes about 60 days from the time you plant to the time to the firstt female flower. That being said, if you plant april 20 then you will polinate around june 20 so if you plant may 1 then you will probably polinate around july 1. I would just plant early and just pick off the females until you are ready. They will produce female flowers about every 7 to 10 days and the bigger you let the plant get the better your chances are to get a biger pumpkin. We like to wait to the second female to show because by then the plant is about 10-15 feet long by then.

3/18/2014 9:58:45 PM

Corbin, KY

Im about 100 miles North of you weather is a little warmer there so I would start seeds April 20-25. Plant in patch first week of May. Pollinate around June 15 before you have to leave.

3/19/2014 9:45:40 AM

East Jordan, MI

I agree with Tim. The hotter it gets the harder it is to get a pumpkin set, and if you can't get one set until after you get back you will have bigger plants to work with. They continue to produce females until they die, so plenty of chances to get the cross you want, no harm no foul.

3/19/2014 6:30:57 PM