Question
We planted pumpkin seeds the middle of July. They are very healthy looking plants, which blossomed nicely. However, now that the blossoms have fallen off it seems we have two pumpkins developing out of the 50 plants we planted. We did see bees near the vines. We are uncertain what the problem is?  We did not use any pesticides on the plants.  The pumpkins are planted in Gorman.  Thanks for your help.

Answer
When pumpkins and other members of the squash family fail to produce fruit due to blossoms or young fruit falling off prematurely, it is usually an indication of one of two problems. Either your plants are not being fully pollinated, or they are receiving too much water.

You did mention that you have seen bees. However, it is possible you need to attract more. If you do not have enough bees in the area, you can hand-pollinate the flowers of most vegetables by taking a Q-tip or small paint brush and transferring the pollen from the male flower to the female (the female always has a small fruit on the end). This must be done within one day of the female flower blossoming. To attract more bees, grow sunflowers, marigolds, cosmos, or some other bright annual in the immediate area.

One other possibility is that you are over-fertilizing the plants. Many of today抯 water soluble fertilizers are very high in nitrogen. This results in lush foliage but often at the expense of a smaller harvest. Look for a fertilizer higher in phosphorus and potassium. Many companies now market products formulated especially for fruit-bearing vegetables such as tomatoes and squash. I would also recommend to add aged manure or compost to increase the concentration of natural phosphorus and to stabilize the ph levels of the soil.

In summary, remember to continue fertilizing with a low nitrogen fertilizer once every other week, and only supplement enough water to ensure a depth of 1.5?per week. Water only once or twice per week but very deeply. Shallow watering always results in poor root development and smaller harvests. Also, be sure to mulch heavily with straw or dried grass clippings around the plants to retain moisture and cool the soil.

Good luck, and have a great weekend.

Regards,

Mike