pumpkins

[perose]

Any tips for growing the largest pumpkin, our family are having a competition as to who can grow the largest.

[Clanad]

Although I don't grow 'em, some neighbors engage in deadly competition each year. One gave me these (unsolicited) tips
The early season fertilizing should be done with a 9-35-15 formula. Apparently, providing phosphorous for root growth,early on is important. Change to a more balanced formula with more nitrogen as the season progresses.
As the vine grows, mound soil over it. A multiple root system aids in size of the pumpkin.
Select a female blossom at least 10 feet from the main tap root. The female has the fruit under the flower and the male is long slender stem with a flower on top.
Finally, as far as I'm concerned, the best female blossom should have a stem angle which is almost 90 degrees (perpendicular) to the vine. I'm told this is critical in prize winnig large pumpkins...
Go forth and grow!

[perose]

Many thanx Clanad for your help, looking forward to a winner!

[Buenchico]

A great answer from Clanad, as usual. (It's amazing what US airline pilots seem to know!).

This (which is also from the USA) might help as well:
http://www.merebrow.com/home/mbgp/how_to_grow. html

Chris

[Clanad]

Chris, flying is often defined as 'Hours and hours of sheer boredom punctuated by moments of stark terror'... have to find something to fill the former. And... Mrs. C says I'm a walking compendium of absolutley useless facts... for what ever that's worth...