Pumpkin

Common Name: Pumpkin

Scientific Name: Cucurbita sp.

USDA Hardiness Zones: annual, will not overwinter

Approximate number of seeds per kilogram (pound) : varies from 2,200 (1,000) to 11,400 (5,200)

Sun: full sun

Water: keep soil moderately moist during germination and water regularly. Overwatering seedlings can lead to "damping off".

Soil: sow at 1 inch deep in well-drained, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. Pumpkins need high levels of nitrogen and moderate levels of both potassium and phosphorus in the soil

Temperature: 24 to 30 degrees Celsius (75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit) for germination

Spacing: 2 feet apart in rows 8 feet apart, larger species require additional spacing

Germination Time: generally 7 to 14 days, longer for some species

Pumpkins come in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors. They are a member of the squash family and grow on vines. Plenty of space is required for each plant to allow them to fully grow. Care must be given with larger varieties such as Atlantic Giant to avoid having a pumpkin grow on top of its own vine, thereby breaking off its source of life. In areas with shorter growing seasons, pumpkins should be started indoors. Pumpkins require a rather high temperature to maximize germination rates and take 120 days to reach maturity (150 days for larger varieties). For this reason, starting seeds indoors is advisable for most people in temperate climates.