How to Grow

A GIANT

PUMPKIN

WHAT DO PUMPKINS NEED TO GROW?

- full sun - slightly acidic soil - Should been sown indoors and not planted until danger of frost is gone - weekly fertilizer

SOIL PREPARATION

Using the correct soil is key to growing any kind of plant. If you want to grow a prize winning pumpkin you need to use the correct growing medium. You can find out what your current soil conditions by having a soil test done.

GERMINATE THE SEEDS

Germinate in mid april for Atlantic Giants. You can put the seed on a moist paper towel overnight in a warm environment (80-85 degrees) and then plant the seed pointed side down in good quality potting soil.

EARLY SEASON PLANT PROTECTION

Before you plant your seed consider laying down a sheet of black plastic or other material to retain heat around your seedling. If using plastic be sure to place a drip hose between the plastic and the soil so you can still water the roots. And remember to provide a hole for your seedling.

WHAT IS THE BEST FERTILIZER FOR GIANT PUMPKINS?

Early season fertilizing and watering is recommended to provide superior plant growth prior to pollination. The recommended liquid solid ratio is 9-35-15. The first stage of fertilization should be based on providing phosphorus for root growth, gradually shifting to a more balanced formulation.

PRUNING THE VINE

This is helpful to optimize resource availability. The main and secondary vines (those growing off the main vine) should be kept but any tertiary vines (vines that grow off the secondaries) should be pruned off.

MOUNDING THE SOIL

Mounding the soil over the vine to create a double root system is a step that shouldn’t be skipped if you really want a huge pumpkin. Take your shovel and place the dirt over the vine. It's recommended to use the surrounding soil of your garden space versus different types of medium.

POLLINATION

Pollination involves selecting a female flower at least 10 feet from the main root tap. Because the growing season in Washington is fairly short you should try to pollinate any reasonable female flower as soon as you can. You may not be successful until late July.

How to Grow

A GIANT

PUMPKIN