Did you know that the GPC has now started putting out it’s own newsletter? Well they do, it’s free and chock full of great articles and information for all you giant pumpkin growers out there.
In this post I’m going to cover what you can find in this edition of the newsletter, and what some of the important things to think about it brings up.
You can get your very own copy of the newsletter delivered to your inbox by signing up on the GPC website right here.
What’s in this Issue?
This summer edition for the GPC Common Ground newsletter comes in at 27 pages in total.
This is what you will find inside:
- Foliar Feeding
- Seminar Updates
- Fertiliser Recommendations
- Update from Tim and Shane
- Growing giant pumpkins in Hawaii
- Squash vine borer
- Tissue testing
- Electrical conductivity & parts per million
- Setting up your pumpkin
Here is a bit more detail around each section:
Foliar Feeding
The big takeaway from this is how long different nutrients can take to enter plant tissue.
Seminar Updates
A great roundup of different seminars held at clubs in the US.
Fertiliser Recommendations
Technical information from a soil scientist. Only useful if you have had a soil test done.
Tim and Shane season updates
Southern hemisphere growers are represented in this issue with a run down on the season from Tim here in NZ, and Shane in Australia.
Growing giant pumpkins in Hawaii
A great story about growing giant pumpkins in Hawaii and the what it’s been like doing this as an activity within a school.
Squash Vine Borer
Luckily we don’t have to worry about this pest here in NZ, but it is a friendly reminder on just how important the border security is to stop things like this from entering.
Tissue Testing
An in depth look at tissue testing. Not something most people do, but interesting none the less. I think one of the downsides for us here in NZ, is the cost of getting these types of tests done.
Electrical Conductivity & Parts Per Million
Like anything that involves numbers, there is probably some sort of conversion needed. This chart shows the conversion chart from EC to PPM. I’m not sure if ppm meters here in NZ would use the same conversion ratio as the US growers.
Setting up Your Pumpkin
Ron Wallace sets out what he puts underneath his giant pumpkins. One of those items is mill fabric, something mentioned a lot with overseas growers. If you are wanting some for the upcoming season here in NZ, get in touch as I have mill fabric ready to go.
In Conclusion
A great edition of the common ground put out by the GPC. I find having something self contained and easily digestible a nice alternative to scrolling through websites or message boards to find relevant information.
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Growing giant pumpkins is a passion that I love sharing. 🎃 If you’ve found my content helpful or entertaining, why not say thanks with a coffee? ☕
It’ll fuel my next giant pumpkin adventure!