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Manitoba

I read somewhere that pinching flowers helps the plant grow faster because the energy used to grow the flowers is now chanelled into growing more vine and leafs. Is this true and if so how do I go about pinching these flowers? I just cut them with scissors but should I be applying something to the open wounds? Should I only cut them when they are just budding or does it matter? Also, should I only cut a few at a time so as not to shock the plant? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks

6/24/2006 5:22:00 PM

Midwest

IMHO flowers tell you the plant is ready to make a pumpkin and should be allowed to grow freely until after you have a few pumpkins. I suppose you can cut them after pollination to channel that energy into the pumpkin. Personally, I like to see them all through the season. Many people, when cutting off a leaf or vine or culling a pumpkin will apply captan to the wound. I guess you could do the same to the flowers? Best wishes!

6/24/2006 11:08:37 PM

Garden State Pumpkins

eliminate any unnecessary growth...male flowers within eight feet of the female are needed..nothing worse then having the female open and no males open. tertiary pinch asap...females not in the primary zone pinch..if you're using stakes to hold the vine down pinch the tendrils off...If you're trying to get that main out a little faster maybe even runt secondary...The wounds are pretty much self healing on small growth..and weeping will be at a mnimum within a day....These are my preferences ,but I'd wait till the more experienced growers kick in their ideas..GrowEmBig!
chuck

6/24/2006 11:14:21 PM