Slings - the right way to do it?

Weedless_ on 8/29/2010, 2:20 pm

Seeing that we lost our first two watermelons due to bad sling (T-shirt strips), I am here to ask for advice on slings that work best, namely, don't stretch under the watermelon's weight, and don't choke the watermelon.
Also, best ways to attach the slings.
Any feedback appreciated.

Shoda on 8/29/2010, 4:23 pm

I was just going to post the same question! Hope you get some good information! Also would be great to know when it is time to set up the slings. I have some winter squash that are getting pretty big.

pattipan on 8/29/2010, 5:55 pm

This thread might help (as well as give you a good laugh!):

http://squarefoot.forumotion.com/general-sfg-talk-f5/vertical-melons-t621.htm?highlight=melons

pattipan

Megan on 8/29/2010, 6:28 pm

The only thing I can contribute is that I have been using nylon stocking footies as slings and supports this year. Overall, it's worked well, but I had one case where the footie material was water absorbent enough to where the plant stem started to have a problem and I found a bunch of rolly pollys in between the stocking and the stem, gnawing away. I removed the footie and the branch survived. In all other cases, it did okay.

chocolatepop on 8/30/2010, 12:55 am

depending on the item to be held. I put the nylon stocking on when it is young (like just slide it right inside) and then slit the stocking and tie it on to the trellis a few times.

Chopper on 8/30/2010, 1:27 am

I am not sure this is even useful. I used a grocery bag for my pumpkin. I did make a hole in the bottom so any accumulated water would drain.

Slings - the right way to do it? End_of10

chocolatepop on 8/30/2010, 2:02 am

AWESOME reusing!

Shoda on 8/30/2010, 1:01 pm

Thanks for the great information and links.

Now how will I know when my winter squash are ready to pick? I haven't grown them before.

Megan on 8/30/2010, 6:29 pm

All I know is the skin will resist your thumbnail. I have gotten one rampicante squash to that stage so far. There is usually a color change as well. Hopefully someone will have more concrete information for you! Smile

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