Tip for this Month: April
Pumpkin seeds can be sown between now and May, but the plants will need warm soil and settled weather to flourish. Sow now if you can provide a warm, frost-free place. If not, wait for a couple of weeks for more successful germination. Even when planted out, remember frosts can strike as late as May and you will need to protect your plants from any cold snaps.
Pumpkin seeds are traditionally laid on their edge, with the narrow edge pointing upwards. Soaking the seeds overnight can also help as this softens the outer shell which makes sprouting easier and faster. Sow the seed in individual pots, ready for transplanting when the soil is warm enough.
More hints and tips will follow in our next column. If, in the meantime, you have any of your own suggestions, stories or photos you would like to share, please write in to us at the address given above. We would love to hear from you!
This year’s National Pumpkin Championship, sponsored by D.T. Brown Seeds, will take place in Soham, Cambs, on Saturday 29th September. For seeds and cultural information, visit www.dtbrownseeds.co.uk. |
