Basics

Ease of Growing
Moderate
Grown as
Annual
Days to Maturity
100-110 (Spring/Summer)
Growing Habit
Vine
Hardiness
Tender

Pumpkins are quite frost tender and can't be planted until all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. Don't put them out before the temperature reaches 65Ż F daily.

Crops
Spring Transplant, Summer
Growing Season
Long
Cultivar Type
-
Growing Conditions
Warm, Hot

Pumpkins are sprawling plants, notorious for taking up a lot of room; so do not plant them in the middle of the intensive garden. They occupy a lot less space if grown vertically on trellises or cages, but then of course they cast a considerable amount of shade. Generally it is best to plant them in hills at the edge of the garden and let them run off into unused space. The site of an old compost pile by a wire fence is perfect. Once established they can compete with almost any plant, so long as their roots are in good soil and they are well fed and watered.

Outdoor Growing Temp
60°F - 90°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp
65°F

Don’t plant out until all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up and the temperature reaches 65° F daily (when the Apple trees blossom.)

Start Indoors
Yes
Start Outdoors
Yes
Light
Water
High

The plants need an evenly moist soil for maximum productivity.

The best way to water Squash is with drip irrigation, or a soaker hose used near the soil, as wet foliage can easily lead to fungus diseases.

Feeder
Heavy

High nitrogen. Moderate potassium. Moderate phosphorous. Squash have a very vigorous root system, which may dig 6' underground in its search for nutrients.

Suitability
High heat, Needs lots of space
Small Gardens?
No
Containers?
No
Attracts beneficial insects?
No
Color
Slate blue-grey
Fruit Size
8.0 - 15.0"
Plant Height
18.0 - 24.0"
Plant Diameter
18.0 - 24.0"
Hardiness Zone
3-12
Disease Resistance
Taste Profile

Sweet, dense flesh with a dry texture that is perfect for soups and for baking.

Rotation Group
Fruits: Solanaceae + Cucurbits