Master the art of growing vibrant, heavy-weight pumpkins
Learn how to cultivate everything from cricket-ball-sized fruits to giant show-winners. RHS horticulturist Liz Mooney explains how to differentiate between pumpkins and winter squash, providing expert guidance on sowing, ideal growing conditions, and essential storage techniques for a successful autumn harvest.
Growing pumpkins requires a long, hot season to ensure the fruit ripens fully for winter storage. These tender plants are typically sown indoors during the spring. For the best results, choose a warm, sunny site protected from cold winds, using fertile, moisture-retentive soil prepared with organic matter.
The variety you choose should match your garden's scale. While many pumpkins are vigorous, trailing plants that spread across several metres, compact bush varieties are available, though even these can reach 90cm across. For those interested in eating, medium-sized fruits are often more convenient, whereas larger varieties are ideal for Halloween lanterns or competitions.
Source: No nonsense advice on how to grow pumpkins | The RHS
