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
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Common name
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Pumpkin
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Temperature
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65° and 95°F (18° to 35°C)
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Water
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Sufficient water to keep soil moist, not soggy. Water when top soil is dry.
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Sunlight
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6-8 hours of full sun
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Soil
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Sandy soil, rich in organic matter.
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Fertilizer
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Nitrogen rich fertilizers before flowering and phosphorus rich fertilizer after flowering.
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Germination
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5-10 days
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Harvest season
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3-4 months
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pH
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6-6.5
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No: of seeds
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12 per pack
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Sowing and Caring
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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.
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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.
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Germination occurs between 5-10 days.
- Mist spray can be used to water to avoid overwatering the seedlings.
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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
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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.
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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.
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Using biodegradable pesticides like the one we have to prevent pests and bacterial problems.
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