Butternut squash - nutmeg

Cucurbita moschata

Originates from Central America. All species of this genus are vigorously growing annual plants. There are several species of pumpkins and squash, and each has several dozen to hundreds of varieties of various sizes, shapes, and colors. Pumpkins are divided into two groups according to use – vegetable and ornamental. The fruits of both types are very diverse in shape and color. The flowers are pentamerous, large, and bright yellow. Ornamental pumpkins can be grown in beds where they sprawl as ground cover plants. They can also grow on supports.

Classic giant pumpkins can reach up to eight meters in length. Pumpkins contain provitamin A and vitamins B and C, as well as carbohydrates, proteins, fiber, magnesium, iron, and calcium. The seeds also contain zinc. They are suitable for preparing soup, can be stewed, fried, baked, or made into compote. Their dried or roasted seeds are also excellent.

How to Grow Pumpkins

• Pumpkins and squash require rich soil and plenty of sun and warmth. They can grow directly on pure compost. They don't need too much watering. Plants must be provided with enough space for their growth. During the growing season, we weed the bed until the plants form a continuous cover.

• Seeds are sown from mid-May. We recommend direct sowing into nests, with spacing of 2x0.5–1 m depending on the variety's growth habit.

• They require permeable soil with sufficient humus and rich in nutrients.

• Organic fertilization with farmyard manure or well-decomposed compost is suitable. We can also grow pumpkins directly on compost.

• Pumpkins are resistant to diseases and pests, but cucumber powdery mildew may appear, especially when watering the leaves. We therefore avoid wetting the leaves. In case of infestation, we treat with copper-based fungicide.

• We harvest in early autumn. The skin of ripe fruits is hard and matte. Cracks form on the stem. Harvested pumpkins are better left to dry for a few days to prevent them from getting moldy.