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Central Minnesota

So here come my long gourds. They are between 6 and 7ft I would guess. Do I need to be supporting these things? They grow so darn fast I really wouldn't know what to do. I can't believe they don't pick themselves. Wind is not an issue because they are protected from that really well.

8/19/2014 3:27:28 PM

Anamosa, IA [email protected]

You want to tie them to the trellis so they don't break the stem and fall. Some growers use stretchy fabric like nylon stockings that allow the gourds to grow. I try to use a stretchy cord if possible. Usually they have a knob at the stem end, but my best this year were tapered so I had to use duct tape to hold the cord on. I also use foam pipe insulation on the trellis wires to keep the wires from cutting into the stems and to keep the juices flowing. When I get a real good one I try to get a board taped on and supported, or at least use a stake at the bottom to keep them from swinging. I learned this the hard way a few years ago when I had a personal best fall and break in 3 pieces.

8/19/2014 3:41:09 PM

JACKSON, WISCONSIN. ; )

roll with it.. I let mine hang no support.... the time I tried they all aborted and have better luck just letting her hang out.. imo

8/19/2014 9:24:20 PM

Bloomington Indiana

I lost one today at 109". In two pieces on the ground. just glad it was not my best one.

8/19/2014 9:33:08 PM

JACKSON, WISCONSIN. ; )

I have too lose some really long ones.

8/19/2014 10:35:28 PM

Lexington, Ky

They can be lawn darts. When the growth slows, I harvest them...had too many take the dive. If I have a particular heavy one, I will cut it before growth slows, just to make sure that I have one for the weigh off.

8/20/2014 10:50:13 AM