Curcubit planting strategies

Curcubit hybrids are now the norm. Because they are so much more expensive to produce, you'll need to ensure that every seed counts and produces the maximum yield per hectare.

- Bill Kerr

For this reason, it will pay you to know the strengths and weaknesses of the cultivar before deciding on a planting strategy.

Chances are you'll want to get your season going as soon as possible so that you can market your produce before your competitors and enjoy a price advantage.

With the cold weather now seemingly behind them, many farmers think they can use cavity seedlings grown under protection and transplant them as soon as the frost danger has passed.

There are hazards to this approach. If the plants are of a transplantable size and the frost is not over, you will negate all of the potential advantage and have the expense of a seedling grower to pay.

PREPARING FOR PLANTING