March 23 – April 20 (Seeds, Reads & Prep)
It’s not like it was a sudden decision to attempt to grow one of these monsters. From the day that I learned that Jesse had been growing them for years, I made up my mind that it would be a fun challenge. Especially after realizing that I had more than enough space on this land. And that my gardening friend would serve as my “pumpkin advisor.”
So after reading everything I could get my hands on, I: a) have at least 10 different fertilizers to buy for different stages of growth; b) know how to artificially inseminate a female flower; c) know which plants make good “companions” for pumpkins; and d) realize I need to buy a soil testing kit.
March 23 – The seeds arrived today. Not just any seeds. These are from last year’s local prize-winning pumpkin grown by my friend & garden helper, Jesse. I told him I was going to name my pumpkin after him at which point he reminded me that all pumpkins are female and asked me to put an “ie” on its name. So that explains the name.
Say “hi” to Jesse, his mom, and their prize winning 365-pound gourd. Mother of “Jessie the Giant” (not to be confused with Jesse’s mom) and source of my seeds. The pressure is on!
March 24 – Prep shopping on Amazon today. I just need to determine which window has the sunniest location for Jessie’s first home at planting time next month. Not taking any chances of putting Jessie and her siblings directly into the ground. Crazy birds around here love seeds!
April 1 – No fooling… the hole is dug! Somewhere from within the bowels of my garden, a magic pumpkin will take root. Or so I hope. I’m sectioning off and fencing a 10×10 area to keep the vines and my soon-to-be (wannabee) award-winning gourd. Must keep Bambi out!
April 13 – Today’s the day for seed soaking. There are warm days in the forecast so I’m anxious to get the little plants started. I have no idea what I’m doing but I read that soaking large seeds in hot water was the magic trick to boosting germination time. Water and something called “scarification” which explains the little nicks on the seeds. This better work or else I’ve just destroyed five prize-winning pumpkins.
