The 1997 Season

This year is going to be different. I finally got the prized Atlantic Giant pumpkin seeds. I grew seeds from both of the worlds' largest pumpkins. The Zehr 1061 and the Greer 1006 plants grew even bigger that my ’96 plants but now I knew what to expect, at least so I thought. A better fertilizer program, water, wind protection, sun shade and the dreaded pesticides all contributed to a much better year and a new personal best. The largest pumpkin on the Zehr plant went down with a fungus due to an undetected hole from a pest. I didn’t want to use the fungicides so I learned the hard way. As I read about other growers’ problems with vermin (both 2 and 4 legged) I was secure with Max always watching over my pumpkin patch. He is always watchful for 4-legged vermin and few of the 2-legged types would dare to approach. 75 pounds is not much for a pumpkin but its’ a lot of dog. The truth is that saliva is his greatest deterrent, but looks alone are enough for most people. His dog house sits on a raised platform where he can oversee everything.

The Greer 1006 plant produced a very tall and round pumpkin that amazed all of my neighbors. Now they were certain I had lost it but who cares. I was having the time of my life growing pumpkins so big that I had to ask them for help just to move them!

Little pumpkins have to start somewhere. You can see the little rascal under the flower waiting for it to open. I took the pumpkin to a local fair. I hoped it would make 300 pounds but I was sure it would be light. The time came for it to be weighed; I clinched my teeth and held my breath. Would it make it? YES! 341 pounds, well over 300.

Max made it to weigh off but 10 years is a long life for a Boxer. He was still like a pup right up to his last race to the food bowl when his heart gave up. He was a great dog and a wonderful companion for my boys. Someday we will get another dog but for now it means get out the rototiller and make a second pumpkin patch. I’ll have double fun with 2 pumpkin patches!