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Santa Cruz, CA

Since we have gophers in our area I think I need to put something under my pumpkin. Is aviary wire(@1/2" openings) too big? Should it be more like window screen material? We don't get summer rain so I am keeping the area around the pumpkin dry. I'm not sure that moisture is a problem or is it?

7/21/2005 7:18:29 PM

Montoursville, PA

I would think the wire would be fine....if you cover it over with a good bed of sand. The object is to keep the critters from coming up from below to chew on the juicy pumpkin you are growing.

7/21/2005 9:32:17 PM

Santa Cruz, CA

Thanks for your help. I'll try that.

7/22/2005 1:56:44 AM

Owensboro, Ky.

From my limited exp., wire alone will make major marks in the bottom of your 'kin. Just think about several hundred pounds sitting on top of the wire!!! Something smoother and closer weaved needs to be under it. And it needs to be able to allow moisture to escape. Lots of talk on this site about what is called "mill cloth"??? Not sure about name but supposed to be very close weave, very tough, water pearmeable fabric of some type. I think pumpkinsupply.com has it for sale. Peace Wayne

7/22/2005 2:20:19 AM

Eastern Pennsylvania

the pumpkin should be on a board or something anyways. Put down the wire, then a little soil, then a piece of plywood or thick tarp.

7/22/2005 1:31:46 PM

Santa Cruz, CA

I called my local garden store and they didn't know what Mill Cloth was. What is it? and thanks for the help.

7/22/2005 7:44:42 PM

Cincinnati, OH

Creekside, I just went thru this awhile back. After much help from the folks here I put peg board under the pumpkins. It has worked great. The holes keep the water out, it is semi flexible (less stress) and keeps the critters out. You can take a look if you like at http://www.fishernetworks.com/GiantPumpkin

7/25/2005 10:14:35 PM