When to plant Pumpkins in the UK

Sow seeds on their edge at a depth of 2–3 cm in modules or pots filled with seed compost. Keep at 20–25 °C to encourage germination, which usually takes 7-10 days. Do not sow earlier than mid-April as seedlings can become root-bound quickly.

Once seedlings have two true leaves, pot them on into larger pots around 9–12 cm in diameter to prevent root restriction. Use a general-purpose compost and keep them in a bright, warm spot at 18–21 °C.

Gradually acclimatise plants to outdoor conditions over 10-14 days starting around early May to mid-May. Place them outside in a sheltered spot during the day and bring them in at night, increasing exposure each day.

Plant out into rich, well-drained soil after the last frost, spacing plants 150 cm apart. Dig in plenty of compost or well-rotted manure beforehand and water well. Use cloches or fleece for extra protection if nights are still cool.

Water heavily at the base to keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Once fruits start to swell around mid-July, feed every 14 days with a high-potash fertiliser to support fruit development.

Leave fruits on the vine as long as possible before the first heavy frost, harvesting from early October to late October. Cut leaving a 5–10 cm stalk, then cure in the sun for 10-14 days to harden the skin for storage or carving.