Here are some links to further your research into the different approaches to raising giant pumpkins...

Ohio State University Extension Fact Sheet.- http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/1000/1646.html Colleges and Cooperative Extension Services are a super reading. This is one of the best.

Growing Pumpkins and Winter Squash - http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/hil/hil-24.html Here's another good one, from the CES at North Carolina University.

Backyardgardener - http://backyardgardener.com Lots of content and depth, this site has been around for years.

For more great links, see http://www.pumpkinnook.com/other.htm

Cruisin' along into February...
Atlantic Giant Pumpkin Growers in Western Montana can now go pick up their free seed packets and info flier for the 2004 season.

There will be two outlets for free seeds in the Missoula and Bitterroot Areas-
In Hamilton, pick up seed packets at the Ravalli Co. Fair Grounds Office, M-F, 8-4:30, after March 1st.

In Missoula, pick up seed packets at Ibey Nusery on Grant Creek Rd, across from the smokejumper center, during regular business hours.

Again this year I will offer seedlings, during KUFMs Radio Week fund raiser for public radio - March 13th - 21st. These seedlings will be ready to go into your garden around the 1st of June. A great way to support public radio and get a healthy plant ready to take off across your patch!

Don't forget our own fundraiser for our weigh off - see the RED text below... and see you on the 7th!