Pumpkin Hundredweight (Cucubita maxima)

Additional Details

When to Sow Hundredweight Pumpkin Seeds

April to May under glass Mid May to June outdoors

Where to Sow

Sow seed on edge 1.5cm (1/2") deep to prevent rotting in pots or trays during April to May 2.5cm (1") apart under glass at 20°C (68°F) using good quality seed sowing compost. Sow outdoors mid-May to June direct into growing site 1.5cm (1/2") deep 2 to 3 seeds in each position 60cm (24") apart.

What to do next

Greenhouse sowings should be gradually hardened off once they have developed the first pair of rough leaves and transplanted to growing site in late-May to early-June 60-90cm (24-36") apart once all risk of frost has passed. Outdoor sowings should be thinned to one plant per station.

Maturity

September to October

Handy Tip

To get very large fruits take out the growing point after 3 to 4 fruits have set then gradually reduce down so only 1 to 2 plants develop per plant.

Nutritional Values

A good source of pro-vitamin A, vitamins B1, C and E.