Gardening with Dad can be a fun way to spend Father’s Day. Although most fruits and vegetables must be planted during spring, pumpkins are great to start growing in June. Here are some quick tips on how to grow healthy and bountiful pumpkins.
When to Plant:
Late May – Early June (days average at least 70ºF)
Where to Plant:
Large area with lots of sunlight
How to Plant:
- Using a tiller or hand spade, mix a Schultz Enriched Garden Soil into the top 6 inches of native soil. Level the area with a rake.
- Plant seeds 1 inch deep in rows 4-6 feet apart.
- Place 2 seeds in each hole—holes should be 2-3 feet apart.
- Add a fertilizer to your soil to promote growth—we suggest using an All Purpose Plant Food. Our Schultz line comes in granular for a slow-release feeding over 3 months and a water soluble which feeds every time you water.
Maintenance and Upkeep:
- Thin plants with 3-4 leaves—1 plant every 2-3 feet.
- Eliminate weeds with hoeing and shallow cultivation.
- Watch for powdery mildew and pests (i.e. cucumber beetles and squash bugs).
- Water deeply and infrequently (irrigate for extended dry periods).
When to Harvest:
- Mid-late October
- Deep and solid in color (orange for most varieties)
- Rind (skin) is hard
- Stems are dry
How to Harvest:
- Cut from the vines carefully, leaving 3-4 inches of the stem attached.
- Avoid cutting or bruising the pumpkins.
- Store in a moderately warm, dry place (between 50°F and 55° F).
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