OSU South Centers to host Pumpkin Field Night

Share | Fruit and vegetable safety: Good Agricultural Practices training set for Jan. 24 in central Ohio Updated Purdue Extension corn, soybean guide now available Ohio Maple Days set for Jan. 24-26 Specialists: In 2013, resolve to improve farming practices Risk management at forefront as farmers face uncertainty in 2013

By Julie Moose

PIKETON, Ohio - Commercial and backyard pumpkin producers can learn the tricks of the trade for growing quality pumpkins during Ohio State University South Centers’ Pumpkin Field Night Oct. 18.

The event is 6-9 p.m. at OSU South Centers’ Endeavor Center, 1862 Shyville Road, Piketon. Registration is $5 per person. The tour is part of OSU South Centers' Third Thursday Horticulture and Business Training Series.

OSU Extension horticulturist Brad Bergefurd will walk attendees through pumpkin fields and provide tips and techniques for growing and managing pumpkin production.

Ohio State’s new Pumpkin and Floral Strip trial is included in the tour and attendees will be the first to hear the results of the effectiveness of various types of floral strips planted with the pumpkins and their impact on pollination.

The tour also will include discussions on new pumpkin varieties, downy and powdery mildew disease management and control, cucumber beetle identification and control methods, yellow vine decline disease and prevention techniques, growing your own nitrogen, and timing applications of drip irrigation.

Weather permitting, this workshop will be held in the fields, so participants should come prepared to walk and spend the evening outside. Indicate during registration if special accommodations are required.

To register, contact Jennifer Warfe at 740-289-2071, ext. 301, or e-mail warfe.2@osu.edu