Saturday, March 22, 2008

World Water Day!

Good afternoon, Growers!

Yes, tomorrow is World Water Day. I thought it would be a good idea to review some very basic tips to save water as they relate to giant pumpkin and general vegetable cultivation:

• Use a soaker hose. It directs the water exactly where it's needed, reduces water loss by evaporation, and many of them are made from recycled tires. I normally create a spiral around my mound, just like the first picture above. Then, as the season progresses, I expand the spiral so it covers more area as the vine and the vine's roots grow out.

• Water in the early morning. This allows water to be fully absorbed by the vine by the early/late afternoon when the sun's the hottest and the stress on the vine is the greatest. I normally set my timer for 6:00 a.m. to water for 30-45 minutes, depending on the weather, and the requirements of the vine.

• Mulch around your vine. This will reduce water evaporation, moderate the soil temperature, and also reduce weeds. A mulch depth of 3"-4" should be plenty, and remember to leave 6"-9" clearance around the vine where it comes out of the ground/mound to prevent mold, fungus, or rotting.

Hope that these tips will help you reduce your water usage and still grow a monster this season!

Have a great week-end!

Stuart