Growing Pumpkins

Did you know pumpkins have been grown in North America for almost 5,000 years? This native plant is a lot of fun to grow. 

 There are two requirements for growing this winter squash: 1) Having the space to grow them [ideally 1,000 square feet per plant for giant types, 50 to 100 square feet for regular-size varieties, and about 15 to 36 square feet for miniature types] and 2) having a long growing season [generally 75 to 100 frost-free days]. Growers in northern locations need to plant by late May; in southern states, plant by early July. Pumpkins do require a lot of nourishment. That said, pumpkins are easy to maintain. Of autumn’s wine, now drink your fill; The frost’s on the pumpkin, and snow’s on the hill. –The Old Farmer’s Almanac, 1993 Space pumpkin plants 2 to 5 feet apart (depending on the variety). Grow each pumpkin on a 3-foot wide mound of warm, fertile soil that has a pH of 6.0 to 6.8. Improve your native soil by mixing in several inches of aged compost or other rich organic matter. Pumpkins require a lot of water, so it’s best to use a soaker hose or drip irrigation. Avoid wetting the leaves. Give your pumpkins plenty of nourishment with a continuous-release plant food. As pumpkins start to form, elevate them off the soil to prevent rotting. 

Harvest pumpkins once they reach their ideal color. The skin should be firm and stems will have started to wither. Pumpkin Seeds 1 ½ cups raw whole pumpkin seeds 2 teaspoons butter, melted 1 pinch salt Directions Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C) and gather ingredients. Toss seeds in a bowl with the melted butter and salt. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown; stir occasionally. Enjoy !