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Entry Date
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Nick Name
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Location
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Sunday, September 28, 2025
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Matt D.
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Connecticut
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Entry 71 of 71 |
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Pustules Removed
Here the cluster of pustules can be seen after being removed from the pumpkin. While they may look soft, these are actually hard to the touch and seem to be filled with a jelly-like substance. The origin source seems to be in the actual rind of the pumpkin where it meets the surface skin layer.
It is a little hard to describe, but there is an odd release of "water" in this area that results in these grape-like structures developing. They start just below the skin and build and progress to the point they protrude out the skin and some bust during this process releasing water and sugar cause the rind to get soft.
This is not a direct rot, but the release of water and sugars causes the flesh to soften. Applying bleach and a hair dryer followed by a fan seem to be helping slow the progression, but I am also realistic and do not like the odds of this making it to the end. Plans are being scrambled to harvest it as soon as possible, but this is quite a sad feeling.
Pumpkin itself and plant health have been optimal the entire season, but this odd formation has been the only real negative of the season, unfortunately this could mean the end of the season before the weigh-off.
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