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I've lost a lot of primary and secondary leaves, Will I be losing Pumpkin size if I let 3 third stage vines grow in order to get more leaves to help produce food for the pumpkin. Thanks Toby

8/5/2005 3:05:08 PM

Ctpumpkin@optonline.net

"Back vining" as it is sometimes called has never really been determined to help or hurt that I am aware. I've done it as have others to replace lost leaves for the same reason you're considering. I also theorized the open soil areas would support fewer weeds once shaded by new leaves which would also help.

Back vining also helps keep the growers moral up which might mean more than anything else.

8/5/2005 9:27:33 PM

Montoursville, PA

It takes energy, to grow lettuce or back vines. That energy needs, to go, to the purpose, of the fruit....to mature and produce seed, for reproduction. I doubt that the late season vines can be established and return, to the total enough energy, to replace what was used, in their creative growth. They must set roots befor any production, of nutrients, can possibly become excess, for the total plant's maintenance. Only then can they be a positive influence. To that point they are a drain, on the purpose, of the plant. That is, to grow that pumpkin, to maturity.

8/6/2005 9:59:43 AM