Pit Preparation, Germinating and Planting

1. Select an area where you can erect a trellis to support the plant, which also receives full sun light.

2. Mark 2 feet x 2 feet area and clean all vegetation.

3. Dig a pit of about one foot in depth. Keep the soil separately.

4. Mix compost with this soil and refill the pit.

Pumpkins aren’t difficult to grow, but do require a bit of planning for success. Since their vines can grow 20 feet and they are prone to mildew, a Staking System for vertical support is recommended to keep fruit off the wet ground and allow for good air circulation. You will want to make sure this crop receives direct sunlight every day, and that temperatures are consistency hot. Once your pumpkins have been planted, prevent unwanted pests by covering them with insect netting up until four weeks. Since pumpkins and gourds tend to be heavy drinkers, fill the water reservoir 2-3 times per day once fruit appears on the vines.

COMMON PESTS: Cucumber Beetle, Squash Bug, Squash Vine Borer, Aphids

SUSCEPTIBLE TO: Powdery Mildew, Bacterial Wilt, Anthracnose, Lack of Pollination