Shading Techniques for Your Large Pumpkin in Preparation for the Weigh-Off

Start by cutting a cover 6×5 feet. Tie 18 inch loops of twine to each piece of rebar, and drive this end into the ground at an angle (toward the center) until its twine loop reaches ground level. Next, arrange 3 pieces per side-opposite each other. Now it is time to install hoops that support your tarp: take 10 foot pieces of 1/2 pvc pipe (each 10ft long), slide one across two opposing pieces of rebar, repeat with two additional 10ft pieces; finally take 6 foot piece and install two 90 degree elbows facing down before finally placing this piece atop three hoops and duct taping it down.

Once your frame is assembled, all that remains to cover it with the tarp is covering it with twine to tie the tarp to loops on rebar and secure it with twine ties. Be mindful not to create an oven as proper ventilation must be allowed to avoid heat build up. I left one end open. Using a waterproof tarp ensures your pumpkin and ground remain dry for easier mold, fungus and rot control as well as lessening sun-damage effects.