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September 10, 2003

Pumpkin varieties, disease management twilight meeting topics

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. –Purdue University's Northwest Commercial Horticulture Program will offer pumpkin producers a look at new varieties and management techniques during the Pumpkin Twilight Meeting in Allen County.

The meeting begins at 5 p.m. (EST) Sept. 16 at Kurtz Farm, 14212 State Road 37, New Haven, Ind.

"The Kurtz Farm has a successful pumpkin production operation," said Liz Maynard, Purdue research specialist with the Northwest Commercial Horticulture Program. "They have generously allowed us to plant the pumpkin variety trial there."

The meeting is free and open to public, and a meal will be provided. The event is co-sponsored by Purdue Extension of Allen County and the Northwest Horticulture Program.

Participants can compare more than two dozen pumpkin varieties on a tour of the variety plots and learn about disease and insect management.

One uncommon disease to be discussed is downy mildew, which occurred in pumpkin fields earlier than usual this year. Dan Egel, Purdue regional pest management specialist, will provide information about the disease.

Other Extension specialists also will answer questions and discuss pumpkin production practices. For more information, call (219) 785-5673 or visit the Purdue Fruit and Vegetable Connection web site..

Jack-o'-lanterns, pie pumpkins and mini pumpkins also will be on display.

Writer: Michelle Betz, (765) 494-8402, agnews-stories@purdue.edu

Source: Liz Maynard, (219) 785-5673, emaynard@purdue.edu

Ag Communications: (765) 494-2722; Beth Forbes, bforbes@aes.purdue.edu; https://www.agriculture.purdue.edu/AgComm/public/agnews/


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