Tis the Season

The Millenium Season is going great with high anticipations. Our transplants are looking good but they are quickly becoming root-bound in their temporary homes. The folks here in Sikeston are excited because many people around town will be attempting to grow their own giant melons this year. One farmer has 500 Carolina Cross plants growing already. I'd hate to be on his harvest crew!

Our neighbors, Kevin & Sandy Glaser, stop by on a leisurely afternoon ride to cheer us on.

Our good friend Donnie Beggs of Beggs Melon Company in Blodgett, Missouri helps us with the final preparations for transplanting the melons into this year's field. Donnie is growing 200 acres of the sweetest, juiciest watermelons in the world this year! His knowledge of plant diseases and pests is a invaluable tool that allows us to compete for the world record.

The Guiness Book of World Records holder and good friend Bill Carson has his plants in the ground too and threatens ALL who dare unseat him for the coveted spot. There's nothing quite like a lot of pressure from The Master who still owns the World Record at 262 pounds grown in Arrington, Tennessee in 1990.

Our friend, Dub Martin of Millington, Tennessee, made the trek to Sikeston to share his secrets and wish us luck this season. Dub grew a 211 pound melon last year and is going for it again this year armed with even more knowledge.

Fellow giant melon grower Daryl Burnthorn from Louisiana is well under way this season and will be putting the pressure on all of us early this year. Daryl grows giants consistently in the 190 plus pound range and says his new genetics are going to send him to the top!

Gambling with Mother Nature, Tina and I put out three plants early this year to take advantage of the sun's longest days. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. It's all experimentation. Good luck to all our fellow growers this season and keep your messages coming in!!!