PUMPKIN

 

Soil Preparation 

• In early October, start preparing the soil of your raised bed or plot by pulling up weeds and any dead old plants. They will need plenty of space!
• Give it a dig over and break up any big clumps of soil and remove stones. (If your soil is heavy or sticky clay, go here)
• Mix in sheep manure or compost from your compost heap to give the soil a boost in nutrients. 

 

Planting the Seed

• At the end of October, dig holes 2 meters apart 5cm deep (they will sprawl).
• Place 2 seeds in each hole and cover with soil. If you don’t have space, plant 1 metre apart and prune once pumpkins start forming. 
• Water seeds every day until seedlings emerge. After that, water just to keep the soil moist.
• Seedlings will emerge in 7-10 days

 

More Tips

• Choose a spot with plenty of sunshine and lots of space.
• They will be ready to harvest in Autumn, when the leaves start to die down.