If you’re transplanting your pumpkin plants into the soil, it’s best to prepare the ground ahead of time. This can be done in April by adding a generous helping of compost or manure to the ground and mixing it in. Choose a location which is in full sun and has good drainage to give the plants the best chance to thrive. If transplanting more than one plant, leave as much space as possible between plants, at least 1.5 m. Pile the soil into mounds at the desired distances and plant each pumpkin plant on top of the mound for good drainage. Water generously until the plants become established and give fertiliser a few weeks after planting. You shouldn’t need to water the plants again unless conditions become particularly dry. Unruly stems can be trained to wrap around the plant if overgrowth becomes an issue.
If you wish to sow your pumpkin directly into the soil in the garden then it’s best to wait until mid-May before sowing the seeds. Sow two seeds 3 cm deep and keep them warm for two weeks by covering the soil with either a cloche or plastic wrap. After germination, thin the seedlings leaving only the strongest plant.
Pumpkins are vulnerable to pests and diseases, particular powdery mildew, so keep an eye on your plant for any changes or infestations. If the weather is cooler, failed pollination may result in small fruits rotting spontaneously. This is untreatable and will remedy itself once the weather improves and pollination resumes. Just pick off and dispose of the rotten fruits.
If you are focusing on size rather than quantity then limit your plant to growing just one fruit. If multiple fruits appear, simply pick off the smaller fruits, allowing your plant to focus its energies on a singular pumpkin.
All being well, your pumpkin(s) should be ready for harvesting roughly four - five months after sowing, in time for halloween. You will know if the fruit is ready to be harvested by tapping the skin of your pumpkin. If the skin is hard and it sounds hollow then the fruit is ready. Use pruning shears or a sharp knife to cut the fruit, leaving approximately 10 cm of stem for longevity of shelf life.
Have a look at our wider selection of pumpkins and winter squash. Large and small, quirky and rare. Every order over £10 receive free seeds tailored to your selection.
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