Is it too deferred to plant pumpkins (NE Ohio)? Okay I obviously didn't do something right because my pumpkins got eat...
Okay I obviously didn't do something right because my pumpkins got eat by what I assume are grubs. Is it too late to plant new ones for get in in October? And, what do I need to do to prevent the grubs?
Go for it!
I would vote, yes, it is too late. Your plants will grow. They will probably even flower, but the pumpkins, if any grow, won't ripen in time. You are starting one month next than what is recommended, so that is the ripening time.
As for grubs, you can go to Lowes or Home Depot and find grub preventative within the lawn and garden section. This requirements to be applied according to package directions for preventative for next year.
As for this year, when you till your soil to plant your pumpkin seed, look carefully. Hand pick any grubs that you find and destroy them.
Answers: You're adjectives it close. If you plant potted starter plants of miniature pumpkins you should be OK.
Here is the recommendation for "ideal" starting dates for pumpkin plants:
Giant Pumpkins:
Start indoors from April 25 to May 15th
Set outdoors after the first true leaves form.
Provide cold and frost protection...it's a must.
Jack-O-Lanterns / Field Pumpkins:
Direct sow into the garden from May 15th to June 15th.
Start indoors up to two weeks prior to setting outdoors
Provide cold and frost protection...it's a must.
Miniature Pumpkins:
Direct sow into the garden from May 25th to July 1st.
Start indoors up to two weeks prior to setting outdoors
http://www.pumpkinnook.com/howto/seedsta...
For presently, you can use plastic under your pumpkins, elevate them, & keep your vines free of ruins, so grubs can't get cozy & have a place to cast a shadow on. For future elimination of grubs, you can apply "milky spore" or beneficial nematodes for long-term obliteration of the grubs. The grub has to be actively feeding surrounded by warm soil & has to ingest some spores. "If the soil is cooler than 65 degree, the spores just pass right thru minus harm".
http://www.gardensalive.com/article.asp?...
According to this article, a product called Grub-X that is used to get rid of white grubs, is usually applied in July in Ohio during the egg lay stage to control newly hatching grubs within late summer.Then there will be a smaller amount overwintering grubs or spring grubs to contend with.
http://www.shelbylandscaping.com/html/gr...
Good luck! Hope this is helpful.