How to increase yields during the pumpkin flowering period
Pumpkin flowering is a special and important period. When the plants enter this period en masse, care must be taken, because this period directly affects yield, that is, income. So how can pumpkin plants be managed during the flowering period to increase yield? Let's find out together.
1. Control fertilizer and water
The flowering and fruiting stage of pumpkins is a very important period in the entire growth process of pumpkins. During this period, growers should use techniques to achieve a balance between the reproductive growth and vegetative growth of the pumpkin. Unless there is a drought later on, there is generally no need to water. When fertilizing, focus on phosphorus and potassium fertilizers, and try not to apply nitrogen fertilizer, so as to avoid excessive vine and leaf growth, which has a relatively large impact on yield.
2. Regulate growth
After the fruit set is stable, the growing point of the terminal bud on the vine can be removed, that is, pinching. The reason for doing this is to prevent the vines from continuing to grow, thereby consuming the plant's nutrients and causing insufficient nutrients for fruit growth. During vigorous growth, excess branches and forks should be removed before fruiting, and non-fruiting vines should also be removed. This can save nutrient consumption. At the same time, old leaves should be removed to prevent pests and diseases, and this can also increase the plant's ventilation and light penetration.
3. Hand pollination
To ensure the fruit-setting rate and prevent inadequate natural pollination, pollen can be collected by hand, and then hand pollination can be carried out on a sunny evening when there is no wind. This can significantly increase the pumpkin fruit-setting rate. Pollination by collection can also be carried out by directly picking male flowers in suitable weather and pollinating the female flowers. Pollination should be carefully observed, and if poor pollination is found, pollinate once more.
4. Prevent pests and diseases
During the flowering and fruiting period of pumpkins, the main insect pests and diseases are aphids and red spiders. Aphids harm many vegetable crops. Adults suck leaf sap, causing leaves to be unable to carry out normal photosynthesis and produce nutrients for fruit growth and development, while larvae gnaw on the fruit and cause damage. Red spiders likewise mainly cause damage by piercing and sucking sap. Therefore, for pests and diseases, prevention should be the main approach. Once they are found, use pesticides promptly for control. For aphids and red spiders, imidacloprid and fenbutatin oxide can be used for control. Use pesticides alternately to prevent resistance.
The above is an introduction to how to increase yields during the pumpkin flowering period. We hope it can help you. To learn more related knowledge, please follow us.