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In the shade - PDX, OR

Hi All - Just would like to get some opinions on multiple stem cracks.

I just posted a picture in the gallery. This is on my best Pkin named "Seven". She is 20 days old today.
I'd like some advice on her chances of making it full term.

There are 2 cracks in the stem, right where it joins the vine. One is horizontal and the other is perpendicular. They seem to be expanding toward each other. They are both dry and were dusted with captan.
I have cut the tap roots w/in 2 nodes and have attempted to 'get some slack' in the vine. It seems to be as stress free as I can get it & it should expand upward if the pkin wants it too.

Advice?
What are it's chances of making it?

Thanks - Ya'll Grow em BIG! Ceis

8/4/2002 7:39:07 PM

Garden State Pumpkins

Hey Ceis, Hows the stem splits making out have they healed any since you noticed them?

8/8/2002 6:03:51 AM

In the shade - PDX, OR

Hey Chuck - Yes, the cracks have healed & the fruit continues to grow about 10 lbs a day. It still doesn't look pretty though. I have been monitoring the stress on the stem daily and doing what I can to ease it.
The shoulders are getting bigger and now will have to condend with that problem. I put a piece of foam between the vine and the shoulder today. Will have to see what happens as time goes by.

Measurement this morning- 207 OTT - ~188lbs
Cheers - Ceis

8/17/2002 11:24:28 PM

Garden State Pumpkins

Great News! You go get em! Got plenty of time left slow and steady! Chuck

8/18/2002 12:05:11 PM