Pumpkin Rouge V.D'Etampes pumpkin seeds

Cucurbita pepo - ouge V.D'Etampes

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

Classic giant pumpkins grow 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. It is suitable for preparing soup, it can be stewed, fried, baked or made into compote. Its dried or roasted seeds are also good.

How to Grow Pumpkins

• Pumpkins and squashes 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 vegetation, 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 plenty of humus and rich in nutrients.

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

• Pumpkins are resistant to diseases and pests, but cucumber powdery mildew may appear. Especially when watering on leaves. We therefore avoid wetting the leaves. In case of infection, 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. It is better to dry harvested pumpkins for a few days so they don't start to mold.