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Owensboro, Ky.

I have seen in growers diaries, some photos of pumpkins with towels covering pumpkins. If I remember correctly, they were towels soaked in a calcium solution. I think the reasoning behind this was that calcium promotes cell expansion therefore helping to prevent splits. Is this info correct? Is my calcium product...NutriCal...that I have been using as a foliar spray, okay to use in this method? Thanks for all info and opinions. Peace Wayne

7/9/2005 6:06:49 AM

Ctpumpkin@optonline.net

Yes Wayne. Rates vary mostly be the grower's own experience from 1-3 oz per gallon. Knowlege of soil Ca is part of that decision.

7/9/2005 9:15:34 AM

Ohio

WSM, Just to add to your question, when does most people apply this to their pumpkin at what size is a good time to apply the calcium to the pumpkin,this is the first year i will be using this.

7/10/2005 5:05:39 AM

Ctpumpkin@optonline.net

I've heard some complaints off "spotting" on very young fruits at higher than recommended rates. But in the 1-2 oz per gallon range you can soak or spray any set.

7/10/2005 8:43:52 AM

Appalachian Mtns.

I've *spotted* mine but as Tremor said, because of high rates. The calcium droplets literally burns the skin when too concentrated.
I usually do the towel wraps when the fruit gets over 200# or so and the "skin" is being obviously tested/stretched by rapid growth. 2oz per gallon is a good rate to use for foliar or drench.

7/10/2005 9:43:14 AM

Midwest

Can I ask a related question? Is there any benefit from using Calcium on the leaves?

7/10/2005 11:52:01 PM

Appalachian Mtns.

Calcium will help keep your leafage going longer...in my experience and humble opinion. I almost always have great looking foliage in September since I started using foliar calcium sprays.

7/11/2005 12:58:14 AM

Owensboro, Ky.

Follow up questions. How often do you do the towel wraps? How wet do you get the towels? How long will the left over mix keep? Thanks Peace Wayne

7/11/2005 6:29:07 AM

Ontario, Canada.

Wayne, I have been wetting the wraps in fresh solution every other day or there abouts....

calcium pros vs cons

http://www.bigpumpkins.com/msgboard/ViewThread.asp?b=3&p=124136

Russ

7/13/2005 9:23:13 PM