Product details

Belonging to the same family as cucumber and melon, pumpkin is a fruit by looks (since it has seeds) but a vegetable in terms of the nutrient density. The seeds, leaves and the flesh of pumpkins are edible. 

Benefits/ Uses

• Pumpkins are loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants boosting the overall health.
• Rich source of Beta Carotene (converts into Vitamin A inside the body) that increases the disease fighting capacity. The beta carotene also supports eye health. 
• The Vitamins A, C and E of pumpkins improves skin health protecting skin from UV rays. 
• The potassium in pumpkin improves heart health while the rich fiber content reduces the cholesterol level. 
• In addition, pumpkin seeds are rich in protein, magnesium and zinc making it a healthy snack. 

Specifications

Sowing and Caring

• To start seedling, plow a row. Plant 3-4 seeds per hole with each hole being 3-4 feet apart. Choose a comfortable grow bag like the 24x24 HDPE bag. Pumpkins are better grown outdoors. 
• Soilless medium like coco peat should be mixed with the soil to keep the soil loose, warm and aerated. 
• Keep the planter in a warm, sunny position. 
• Germination occurs between 5-10 days. 
• Mist spray can be used to water to avoid overwatering the seedlings. 
• It is suggested to add vermicompost every 2-3 weeks to supplement nitrogen. After flowering starts use a phosphorus rich fertilizer like the one we have every 3 weeks. 

Harvest

• Harvest only after the pumpkins have matured into a beautiful orange color.  Store pumpkins indoors in a well-ventilated space.

Common Problems

• Overwatering will lead to fungal growth like powdery mildew. 
• Too little and too much water will reduce the growth of pumpkins.
• Pumpkins are susceptible to bacterial infections like bacterial wilt and yellow vine disease. 

Precautions

• Overwatering should be avoided and the soil should be well-drained to avoid fungal infection. Water only when the soil is dry 1-2 inches from the top. 
• Vermicompost or any organic soil enrichers should be added once in 2-3 weeks to stimulate growth. Nitrogen rich fertilizers like Azospirillum should be added to balance nitrogen requirements. 
• Using biodegradable pesticides like the one we have to prevent pests and bacterial problems.