Pumpkin Giants

GROWING GIANT PUMPKINS:

Pumpkins prefer a full sun location sheltered from the wind.

* Dig 1 metre deep holes 3-4 metres apart and blend in lots of well rotted manure and mulch. The more the merrier! The end result should be a raised friable mound that will settle down over time. Generous amounts of a balanced fertilizer should also be applied well in advance into the mounds.

* Sow seeds or transplant out after last frosts have passed. Traditionally Labour Weekend (late October) in most areas.

* Keep well watered to encourage deep rooting and vigorous growth.

* When the plants start to run, bury the vine with only the leaf and half the leaf stalk showing, making the plant put down more roots from the base of each leaf axial anchoring the plant and helping the uptake of water and nutrients.

* When the fruit start to set, thin to the single best fruit on each vine.

* Pumpkins can put on up to 5kg weight a day if watered well through the summer months so soak well every day. Watering is best done first thing in the morning.

* Place a thick layer of straw, shredded newspaper or cardboard under the fruit while small to help prevent rot setting in on the underside.

* The pumpkin will have reached its maximum size when the vine starts to die back down, usually after 120 days.

* Fruit colour can vary from yellow to orange and the skin is slightly rough.

* Cut the pumpkin from the vine leaving a wick at least 20cm long.

* Slide a large strong board underneath and get your friends to help you lift it.

* THE WORLD RECORD IS OVER 495KG!!

Good luck – send us your pictures for next year’s catalogue.