From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Warwood

I was pondering just throwing a white sheet over the pumpkin to reflect sun. I've generally used the typical shade structure. I understand that Craig Weir used a white sheet on the pumpkin, so did Monty J last year and he ended up with a 1095. Let me know what you all think about this. Don

8/6/2006 12:21:50 PM

Western NY

i use white sheet. i've noticed a lot more growers using them just because they're a lot easier to work with.

8/6/2006 1:06:21 PM

No Place Special

I just use a white sheet and think its fine. I think a combination of both might be best.

8/6/2006 1:43:59 PM

Colorado Springs, Colorado

It depends on the intensity of the suns rays. If you think that the sun well ripen through the white sheet, then go with a shade structure.

8/6/2006 1:53:16 PM

Long Island,New York

shade structure for midday sun...white sheet on fruit. I've seen white sheets let fruit get very warm....

8/6/2006 1:54:58 PM

sevierville, Tn

I use both, tarp to keep dry, white sheet on top to keep cool. Enough room IMHO to let air circulate is also needed.

8/6/2006 2:10:43 PM

sevierville, Tn

Also, keeps the DEA and their helicopters wondering WTF is down there under those things. Bet they look real strange from up above. LOL

8/6/2006 2:12:39 PM

Www.extremepumpkinstore.com

I use both

8/6/2006 3:01:09 PM

No Place Special

G is right I have taken the sheets off to find the fruit almost hot to the touch. With the heat wave we had, I wonder if my 1010 would have made it if it also had a shade tarp over it along with the sheet.

8/6/2006 3:04:28 PM

Mocksville, NC

Shade stucture, or both here!

8/6/2006 5:36:21 PM

[email protected]

Shade structure only here... I do plan on using my nutrical soaked towels soon on the fruit.

8/6/2006 10:05:46 PM

Whidbey Island

I use a blue tarp, otherwise known as the state flag of Washington, but to keep it cool I use a box fan to blow in outside air during the day.

8/6/2006 11:33:55 PM

Saegertown Pa.

I've used white sheets for two years never had a problem, we have had a lot of 90+ days the last two years.

8/7/2006 5:09:48 AM

Anamosa, IA [email protected]

I'm not taking chances this year, after we lost 2 good ones last year. I have a sheet on my best one and a tarp for both shade and shedding water. I was glad when I checked it last night and found that the sheet had blown off during the morning storm.

8/7/2006 9:35:26 AM

Oz

pumpkin tee pee.
keep a gap at the bottom,and the top open
for air flow.
make large enough to allow for AG growth

8/7/2006 8:12:14 PM