Why Grow Squash and Pumpkins from seeds?
Sow and watch them grow. A plant that not only produces amazing fruit but is fast-growing and perfect for using on ground reclaimed. The Suttons range offer Pumpkin seeds for different scenarios.
For those of you who like to be competitive try ‘Atlantic Giant’ pumpkin seeds and see how big you can get one to grow. There’s even a Pumpkin for pots and small spaces which would be perfect for a playground, the pumpkin ‘Windsor’. Not forgetting Halloween fun for children there is ‘Jack be Little’.
The delicious and arguably the most popular winter squash the Butternut squash, roasted butternut squash is particular delicious.
When To Plant Pumpkin and Squash Seeds?
Pumpkin seeds need to be sown between April and June under glass.
How to Grow Squash and Pumpkins from Seeds?
- Pumpkins are very easy to get going and grow. Sow in pots in a propagator indoors, early to mid-April is a good time to start. Be sure to label and date your pumpkin plants
- Move them onto a bigger pot once they start to grow. Compostable pots are a great idea as these can be plated straight int the ground
- Pumpkins are tender plants and need warm soil and weather. Harden them off during May by placing them outside during the day and protecting them at night. Plant out 1st June, if it looks like a cold night might come along, protect with a bell cloche.
- Pumpkins will enjoy plenty of water, especially as they get going. Deep watering is essential meaning be generous with watering, early morning is the best time
- Also Plenty liquid feed, little and often. Start with Seaweed extract and then moving onto Tomato feed once flowering begins.
- In dry summers Pumpkins can suffer from moulds & mildews, pick the plant over or if a heavy infestation, use Organic deterrent sprays.
For a big Pumpkin, thin out the fruit to one or two Pumpkins and concentrate on them. Once the Pumpkin plant fruit starts to put on size, cutaway leaves from the fruit to allow the sun to aid ripening.
As plants they ramble but also smaller varieties can be grown on trellis or vine eye and wire. Some gardeners like to grow their Pumpkins on a compost heap, where they can feed off the nutrients freely. Placing Straw under developing pumpkin will protect from rotting in wet weather conditions. Harvest in early autumn.
How Long Do Pumpkins Take To Grow?
Pumpkin seeds can be sown outside during May and June when any risk of frost has passed. The seeds will reach maturity in 18 to 22 weeks, and can be harvested throughout September and October; just in time for Halloween!
Read our 'How to grow pumpkins and winter squashes' guide for more information on producing this delicious crop. The 'Best expert advice on growing pumpkins and squash' is a fantastic collection of tips from experienced gardeners.
