Step-by-Step Growing Guide
Pumpkins are space-hungry warm-season vines that need rich soil and a long hot growing season. Direct sow after the last frost and once soil reaches 18°C, planting 3–4 seeds per hill at 2.5cm depth. Thin to the 2 strongest plants. Hills should be spaced 1.8–3m apart depending on vine type. Amend deeply with well-rotted manure and compost, targeting pH 6.0–6.8. Pumpkins are heavy feeders: apply a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer at planting, transition to a high-phosphorus formula at flowering, and switch to high potassium as fruit develops. Water deeply — 4–5cm per week — at the base, keeping foliage dry to prevent fungal disease. Once 2–3 fruits set per vine, pinch vine tips and remove extra fruits to direct energy to size. Place a board or straw beneath developing pumpkins to prevent rot and protect from slugs.