Sprawling vines that ramble across the garden and reward you with heavy, sweet, long-keeping fruit. Give them room and a rich, sunny bed and they'll do the rest.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 50 cm tall
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Pumpkin
Botanically, Cucurbita maxima is a fast-growing edible plant in the Cucurbitaceae family. It reaches around 50 cm tall at maturity.
Where to grow Pumpkin
Pumpkin suits warm-temperate, subtropical and tropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Pumpkin does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Pumpkin does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Pumpkin in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Once established, it is low maintenance.
Using Pumpkin in the garden
Pumpkin earns its place for edible harvests.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Pumpkin with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Pumpkin
Plant Sale lists Pumpkin as seed and seedlings. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Pumpkin seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
