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NW Vermont

Can't figure out why my field is starting to mature so early (NW Vermont). Planted Ct Field pumpkins first week in June from seed and already have one 25 pounder compleatly orange, others are starting to turn, although not as much as the one. Still have lots of flowers going and many are just starting to set (going to be a bumper crop). Is this unusual? Only thing I can think of is the weather this year has been very hot and moist. I had planned the planting so that would be ready by mid september, but looks as if some are going to be a month and a half early. So the next question is how long can I hold them in the field after they've turned orange? Will they contiune to grow in size after they turn? Should I harvest as they turn?

8/4/2003 9:19:50 AM

Monrovia,CA

Hi Jim! I'm not an expert on the subject but have had a patch of Ct field type pumpkins (Howden biggies) for some years now and have found that just like the AG's these pumpkins will start ripening when it gets hot. I also had the problem of them sunburning after they were ripe in the patch without the leaf protection. I went around and put mini shade structures over several (bamboo sticks with old pieces of sheets) and this seemed to help. I also had to put a piece of board under each one to prevent rotting. I've several pumpkins now that are already orange. One is a Big Max (been orange for almost 2 months!) It is still attached to the vine but it sits on the front porch (on a board) in the shade. I think shade and cool are the key. As far as picking and storing...if they are orange and don't seem to be growing any more...I'd store them in a cellar or other cool dry place. A good read on the subject is Gail Damerow's 'The Perfect Pumpkin' as she specifically addresses ripeness and picking times. Probably could get it through Amazon. Hope this helps.
Michelle

8/4/2003 3:42:03 PM

Monrovia,CA

PS.Jim, if you do have to pick (though I think the best bet would be cool,shade,AND leave them on the vine) make sure you leave about 12-18"of vine attached to the stem. Gail's book suggests testing the skin with your fingernail. If it still dents the skin it would be best to leave it on the vine though I went ahead and picked some before that time 'cause I was losing so many to sunburn.

8/4/2003 3:47:01 PM

Ohio, USA

I have caspers that are maturing early

8/4/2003 4:51:55 PM

Western WA

my big max really matured in the 90 degree weather we had last week. Its still growing and i have it shaded so no problems. good luck

8/5/2003 1:22:20 AM

Ottawa Valley, Ont, Canada.

hey jim, i just noticed tonight that my second largest pumpkin is starting to turn orange. its the only fruit on that plant.

8/5/2003 8:28:32 PM