Pumpkin planting high yield tips

Pumpkin , widely praised for its rich nutritional value, has become a favorite crop for many farmers. In order to grow abundant and large pumpkins, planting and management techniques are crucial. Let’s learn some high-yield pumpkin growing techniques below.

1. Temperature conditions

Pumpkins prefer warm environments and are afraid of frost. The optimal temperature range for seed germination is 25℃ to 35℃, while the ideal temperature for its growth period is 20℃ to 30℃. If the temperature is lower than 12℃, the growth of pumpkin will be hindered, and if the temperature is lower than 15℃ or higher than 35℃, it will affect the differentiation of flower buds and increase the risk of falling flowers and fruits. Pumpkins can be grown by transplanting seedlings or direct sowing. Seedling transplanting is usually carried out in small sheds in early to mid-March, while direct seeding is carried out after Grain Rain when the average daily temperature is stable above 15℃.

2. Moisture management

Pumpkin has a well-developed root system and is highly drought-resistant. Too wet soil can not only cause root rot, but can also cause the plant to grow too tall, thus affecting fruit formation. Therefore, pumpkins should not be planted in low-lying areas, but should be cultivated on high ridges to help prevent waterlogging during the rainy season.

3. Lighting requirements

Pumpkin is a light-loving crop and requires at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight a day. Plenty of sunlight helps the plant grow and the fruit develop. Insufficient light will cause the stems and leaves to grow too long, reducing yield. Therefore, avoid growing pumpkins in areas that are too shady.

4. Soil selection

Pumpkin is not very demanding on soil, but it is more suitable to be planted in neutral or slightly acidic sandy loam with deep soil layer, rich in organic matter, strong water and fertilizer retention capacity, and good drainage. Planting in low-lying, wet areas should be avoided to ensure good drainage and prevent root damage.

5. Field management

Control excessive growth of the plants: Avoid excessive growth of pumpkin plants, which will inhibit reproductive growth and result in only vines growing but no pumpkins. Controlling excessive growth can be achieved through reasonable fertilization, avoiding excessive application of nitrogen fertilizer, and through physical methods such as pinching, lifting vines, and twisting vines.

Reasonable density planting: Avoid over-dense planting to ensure good ventilation and light conditions in the field and reduce the phenomenon of falling flowers and fruits.

Strengthen water and fertilizer management: According to the growth cycle and fertilizer requirements of pumpkin, scientific fertilization and watering should be carried out to promote healthy growth of plants and full development of fruits.

Topping and leaf picking: By topping, pinching and removing excess male flowers and old leaves, you can promote side branch fruiting, increase the fruit setting rate, and improve ventilation and light conditions between plants.

Artificial pollination : When natural pollination is insufficient, such as in rainy weather, artificial pollination can be used to increase the fruit setting rate, especially before 9 am for the best effect.

In short, mastering these key technologies can effectively improve the yield and quality of pumpkin. If you have any questions about pumpkin cultivation, you can leave a message.