Pumpkins are quite frost tender and can't be planted until all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up.

These are vigorous and robust plants. If they are well fed and watered, they can compete with almost any plant.

Water Needs

High

The plants need an evenly moist soil for maximum productivity.

The best way to water Squash is with drip irrigation, or a soaker hose used near the soil, as wet foliage can easily lead to fungus diseases.

Fertilizer Needs

Heavy

High nitrogen. Moderate potassium. Moderate phosphorous. Squash have a very vigorous root system, which may dig 6' underground in its search for nutrients.

Watering, regularly

Water, 1 gallon(s) per plant, regularly, 2 times a week

Keep the soil evenly moist for best growth.

Watering also depends on your local weather; don't water if it's raining, or water more frequently if it's dry. Just be sure to keep soil moist for the best crop. The best way to know how much moisture is in your soil is to feel 2" below the soil line. If it's dry, water.

Side Dressing, regularly

Compost tea, 1 quart(s), regularly, every 3 weeks

Give the plants a feed of compost tea or liquid kelp (use as directed) every 2 to 4 weeks.

Protecting, when 3in tall

Mulch, 2 inch(es), when 3in tall, 1 time

These tender plants will be killed by freezing temperatures. If an early frost threatens cover them with mulch or frost blankets for protection. Mulch is helpful with these widely spaced plants, to keep down weeds and conserve moisture.

Weeding, up to early fruit set

up to early fruit set, 1 time a week

You need to keep the young plants weeded. Once they get going they are vigorous enough to look after themselves. Their broad leaves effectively block out upcoming weeds from sunlight.

Watering, up to early fruit set

Water, 3 quart(s), up to early fruit set, 2 times a week

Keep the plants well watered.

Watering depends on your local weather; don't water if it's raining, or water more frequently if it's dry. Just be sure to keep soil moist for the best crop. The best way to know how much moisture is in your soil is to feel 2" below the soil line. If it's dry, water.

Pruning, during fruit production

during fruit production, 1 time

If you remove some of the fruit it will allow the plant to put all its energy into those remaining and they will get bigger.

This is especially important for the giant pumpkin varieties, such as Big Max and and Wyatt's Wonder.

Support

Optional

The vine takes up a lot less space if grown vertically on trellises or cages. A wire fence can work great. This is optional, though, and not necessary (unlike support for Peas Vines or Tomatoes).