2005 Weight Estimation Chart

[Pharmer Phil]

Here we go, all ready for your Big Un!
the measurements should be taken as follows: (in any order)
Circumference: Measure at a line paralel to the ground, all the way around your pumpkin, as close to the stem and blossom end as possible.
Write this measurement down.
Now, measure your pumpkin, Over the top..
from the ground ON the stem end,over the top and down to the ground on the blossom end...
write this measurement down.
Again, Over the top, this time, over the top of the pumpkin, opposite of the last measurement, from the ground, over the pumpkin, down to the ground.
write this down.

Now, add the three measurements together:
example: let's say the circumference is... 63 inches
and the stem to blossom end mesure is...55 inches
and the OTT, side to side is.......................75 inches
---------------
193 in. Total

Now, the chart..You will need to CLICK on the chart to enlarge the view,(maybe twice) depending on your computer)

Our example weighs Aprox. 162 pounds
This is usually accurate within +/- 5 %

[Arnold the Lurker]

Holy Cow....I bet mine weighs 400 lbs.

[Jeff]

I measured my pumpkin and it weighs 100pounds. Im a little disapointed but its still growing almost 3/4 of an inch in diameter each day so I still have a chance at a really big one.

[DougfromMN]

Jeff,
I can't tell much by diameter measurements. If you could say how much it's growing in circumference per day, it would give a better idea of it's growth.

[jeff]

Doug, its been growing about two inches a day in circumference up untill today. But Im a little worried because today it only grew 1 1/4 inches. maybe it slowed down because it got down to about 54 degrees last night. Im still hoping for 200 pounds or better. Next year Im going to grow one 500 pounds or better because I know what I have to do different.

[DougfromMN]

Jeff,
I think the pumpkins will naturally grow less, during cool nights. Its seems that most of their growthg occurs during th night. I don't know why. If you pumpkin is around 100 lbs, for every inch in circumference growth, your pumpkin is gaining about 4 lbs. If you plant is getting enough water, I wouldn't be too concerned, if the growth slows a little. IWhat shape is your pumpkin, by the way?

[jeff]

Doug,
I measured my pumpkin today and it estimates at 120pounds. Its still not growing as fast as I would like, but at leasst it is still growing. It has a nice oval shape to it, and its not real flat on the bottom either. I guess All I can do now is water it every day and hope for the best.

[DougfromMN]

Jeff,
Sounds good. Do you have any of Don Langevin's books on giant pumpkin growing? If you get serious about growing A.G.s, I'd look into getting at least one of his books. I have the last two volumes. I'd also go with non- generic seed, from a known cross. You have a lot of time before next season, so enjoy this one! Slow and steady growth can really add up. If you need seed suggestions for next year, I'd be willing to help, when the time comes.

[Jeff]

hey Doug, My big pumpkin has stalled out. It grew so fast that it cracked partially off the vine. Im hoping it grows a little bit more now that I moved the pumpkin slightly to give it some slack. I alsdo have a smaller one on another vine that is growing and is about 80 pounds so my season isnt over yet.

[jeanette]

the vine borers got mine but there is always next year.. i learned alot this year...

[DougfromMN]

Jeff,
"It's not over till it's over". Good luck!

Jeanette,
The first year is a great learning experience.

[jeff]

Doug, I picked my biggest pumpkin one week ago today to put it in our county fair big pumpkin contest. It weighed 159pounds and won first place. Not bad for my first try considering how early I picked it. I have another pumpkin that is still growing so my season isnt over yet. Next year Ill have one 500 or better, the patch is already worked up including a pit dug 5 feet round and three feet deep filled full of composted manure waiting for next years giant pumpkins to be planted.

[DougfromMN]

Great job jeff! For next year, I'd get seeds from a known genetic cross. You can also choose genetics based on color, wall thickness, etc.
I could give you seed suggestions after the growing season, if you'd like.

[douglas]

Mine is starting to slow down a bit but I'll save seed for next year to see what happens