Features of pumpkin formation
Pumpkin formation is about regulating the number of fruiting stems. The process allows you to adjust the ripening of fruits, their weight, and also improves the taste of vegetables. Such manipulations are performed for all varieties.
Features of pumpkin formation
When to pinch
Scourges form from the beginning of growth to the end of the growing season. When their length is 1.5-2 m, pinching can be done.
Manipulations are performed in the morning. Under this condition, the plant will have time to heal the wounds by the evening, and the night dampness and coolness will not be afraid of it. Pruning can be done throughout the day if the weather is cloudy. So that the sun does not harm the culture, the places of the cuts are shaded with film.
The formation of pumpkin lashes can be carried out at the moment when the first fruit appears on the main stem.
The procedure is performed repeatedly. They do this throughout the summer. The first manipulations can be performed before flowering.
How to properly shape a climbing pumpkin
Planting in open ground is more practical to perform in different ways: separately, in groups, with one ovary, with several.
Based on the purpose of growing (for an exhibition, for homemade preparations, etc.), it is determined whether it is necessary to pinch the pumpkin.
There are different ways of performing the procedure, each with a different effect on the quality and quantity of the fruit.
In one whip
This pinching of the pumpkin means keeping the main lash. Lateral shoots are removed, on which the ovaries are formed.
The growth point is tacked so that 4-7 leaves remain - they should be placed above the extreme fruit.
In two lashes
To translate into reality this scheme for pinching pumpkins in the open field, perform the following manipulations:
- Leave the strongest lateral stem. It should have one fruit on it. After 5 leaves, pinch the growth point.
- Shoots and leaves are removed from the main stem. Leave 2-3 fruits. There should be at least 4 leaves above the last one.
In three lashes
The scheme provides for the formation of one main pumpkin shoot and two lateral ones. On the main one leave 1-2 fruits, on the rest - on 1. After 5 leaves, pinching is performed.
Gardeners with experience recommend using different methods of formation at the same time. One pumpkin - in one stalk, the other - in two, etc. So you can easily choose the most suitable method.
How to properly form a bush pumpkin
Extra leaves must be removed from the plant.
Such varieties do not grow long shoots, they are compact. But the formation of the pumpkin bush is still performed. Do this according to the following instructions:
- pinch the top;
- remove side shoots and stepchildren, because there are a lot of them in bush pumpkins;
- normalize the number of leaves - those that shade the fruit, pluck.
In mid-August, you need to pinch all growth points. Then the nutrients will be directed to the ripening of vegetables.You can form bush plants in 2 stems. One fruit is left on each of them.
If you form a bush correctly, this will extend the shelf life of the harvested crop. Quality pumpkins can be stored until next season.
Useful Tips
If the culture is planted in the open field, it is worth adhering to the following recommendations:
- Pinch the pumpkin stalks so that 4-6 leaves remain above each fruit.
- There is no need to strive to grow many vegetables on one bush. If the gardener wants to get large fruits, you need to leave 1-4 ovaries. The amount depends on the variety and region of cultivation. The excess should be removed without regret. Otherwise, the pumpkin will drop the ovaries or the fruits will begin to rot. Harmful microflora can also develop.
- The scourges are directed southward. Then it will be more comfortable for them to grow.
- The fruits are separated from the ground using plywood or boards. This will prevent rotting and make it easier to care for the pumpkin.
- When performing the formation, it is worth making sure that the ripening fruits are not shaded. It is necessary to remove dried and damaged leaves.
- It is necessary to monitor the health of the culture.
Caring for a pumpkin after pinching
Long lashes are installed on props. Their height can reach human height. If the culture grows near the fence, you can sprout over it and tie them up.
Digging in
If the plants are on the ground, they are added dropwise. The culture will not be afraid of strong gusts of wind. Long lashes will not get tangled.
Manipulations are performed if 5-6 leaves remain above the fetus. The internodes are sprinkled with soil at a distance of 1 m and watered. Then additional roots are formed, which will help the culture to receive more nutrients, especially during feeding.
The upper part of the lash should be in the sun, otherwise you will not get a crop.
Fertilizer
Fertilizers are applied strictly after watering
Produced only after watering, using humus, humus, potassium salt, ammonium nitrate, superphosphate and other substances.
It is worth alternating between mineral and organic types of dressings. For example, you can apply the following solutions:
- 40 g of superphosphate, 30 g of potassium salt, 20 g of nitrate per 10 liters of water;
- 50 g of wood ash, 2 l of slurry.
Fertilizers are not applied if sufficient nutrients have been applied when preparing the site for planting. They will be enough for the entire period of plant development.
Watering
Pumpkin needs plenty of water, especially during flowering and ovary formation.
It is necessary to water in the evening with warm water - 20˚С. After the procedure, it is necessary to remove the weeds and loosen the earth. In the aisles, the soil is sealed to a depth of 12 cm, under the bush - 6 cm. Watering is stopped during the ripening of the fruit.
Stepping
Crop care involves the removal of unnecessary leaves at all periods of development. Thinning is performed. Extra flowers and fruits are also plucked.
Pollination
If the pinching was performed before flowering, then they look at the possibility of pollination. When the male flowers bloom after the female flowers and there are no insects, it is worth transferring the pollen yourself. To do this, use a soft brush. You can also lean the male flower against the female stigma.
Conclusion
The pumpkin produces many fruits, but not all of them can ripen. The optimal amount is 3 pieces. Gardeners use a certain trick that helps to cope with the problem - formation.
The procedure allows you to increase the yield. Its use extends the shelf life of vegetables. The plant receives more light and air. Proper post-pinching care will help you achieve good results.