Pumpkin
Cucurbita moschata
Want to track this crop?
Download the Farmis app
Plan your farm, track growth milestones, and get personalised advice.
Quick Info
water
Regular deep watering, reduce at maturity
spacing
2 metres between plants
depth
3-4 cm deep
sun
Full sun
season
Year-round in tropics, best in warm wet season
frost
Frost sensitive
height
30-50 cm (vines spread 3-5 m)
gemination
5-10 days
sprout to harvest
90-120 days for mature fruit
soil ph
6.0-6.8
soil type
Rich, well-drained soil with high organic matter
fertilizer needs
Heavy feeder - lots of compost and potassium
About
Pumpkin is a widely grown vegetable in PNG, valued for its fruit, young leaves, and flowers which are all eaten. The vine crop is easy to grow and productive. Both the immature green fruit and mature orange fruit are popular in local cooking. Pumpkin stores well, making it a reliable food source.
Health Benefits
Excellent source of beta-carotene (vitamin A), vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fibre. Seeds are rich in zinc, magnesium, and healthy fats. Leaves provide iron and calcium.
Market Requirements
Mature fruit should have hard skin, good colour, and attached stem. No cracks or soft spots. Immature fruit should be firm and dark green. Leaves sold in fresh bundles.