Planning
Soil Tests = all test were analysed
and results explained
Fertility
Ground Prep = No dig method used to conserve energy, soil biodiversity, soil structure and moisture and a relatively sheltered spot
= Pumpkins like a free draining but moisture retentive fertile soil
= 1 bucket of compost per per m2 or 5 cm of compost spread
Rotation = It's in the Cucurbitaceae family so is in the 'other' part of the rotation - so any where really as not prone to soil diseases.
Production
Weed control = not greatly affected as leaves shade some out - but do weed with a hoe
Plant Maintenance = use cloche to start off for protection. Leave 1 or 2 pumpkins and prune other fruit and flowers. Put shoots back where they should be
Pest Control = Powdery mildew - water in the morning. Put slate under the pumpkin to reduce rotting under it. Resistant varieties
Transplanting = Pot on after 3 weeks to 12 cm pots. In early June after hardening them off plant on a mild calm night + space 1 every 2 m.
Appropriate Feeding = not essential but nutrient tea could be used
Sowing = In late April in 7 cm pots in sieved seed compost twice depth of seed on a heated bench - covered with a fleece
Position = in a sheltered spot away from other gourds to reduce cucumber mosaic virus
Watering = quote a thirsty crop = plenty of water if dry - can put a cut upside down plastic bottle into soil to ensure water gets to deep roots
Harvesting
When = when leaves die back or before frost. Ripe when the stem starts to crack and the outer skin gets harder.
Ripen = Can cure / ripen by moving them into sun during the day for a week
How = Cut with stalk still attached to allow for storage
Store = Handle very gently & store in cool dark place