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San Diego, Ca.

I will be starting a new patch for next year. I will be removing about 10 yards of rock and clay and replacing it with new soil. What I have available for me to replace the removed rock and clay is: Amended topsoil (70% topsoil 30% compost), composted cow manuer and worm castings. How much of each would you use to make up 10 yards of good pumpkin growing soil. The size of my patch will be 20x13x1ft deep.I have a total of about 420sq.ft to grow but I can only dig up a 20x13 area for soil replacement. Thanks

10/6/2003 1:38:43 PM

Tacoma, WA

First....In my opinion, 12" is not deep enough soil preparation. You need at least two foot depth in a 6'radius around where the stump will go.
I'd shoot for 20% manure, 80% topsoil and all the worm castings you can find. You are growing in a relatively small plot...so please tell me that you are only going to try one plant! :>)

10/6/2003 4:37:23 PM

Stouffville

i don't know what the worm castings are... I would just use the amended topsoil plus 4 inches of manure on top, that should give you pretty good 'n loose soil that holds moisture well too, and mix it it all in next year before you plant

10/6/2003 4:38:44 PM

Stouffville

ya but if he gets the right seed, even in that plot a big pumpkin can result

10/6/2003 4:39:46 PM

Key West, FL

Seed alone isn't going to grow you a 1000 pounder or even a 100 pounder.

10/6/2003 6:12:54 PM

San Diego, Ca.

I forgot to mention the pit area. yes I will try for 2 feet deep in that area.I have a bobcat lined up to use so I guess I could dig to China if I need to :0

10/6/2003 7:23:21 PM

[email protected]

If depth is of no issue, then aim for 3 feet. I'll have a backhoe here in the next 2 weeks just to make the patch deeper.

10/6/2003 9:07:03 PM