Pumpkin
- Jarrahdale Pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima 'Jarrahdale')
Sun Requirements: Full Sun
Water Requirements: Moderate to high
Height: Vines can spread up to 10-15 feet
Description: Jarrahdale Pumpkin is known for its unique blue-gray skin and deeply ribbed surface. It's a medium-sized pumpkin that averages 6-10 pounds. The flesh is golden-yellow, very dense, and sweet, making it excellent for pies and baking. This heirloom variety is originally from New Zealand and is highly prized for both culinary and decorative uses.
Planting Tips:
- Plant in rich, well-drained soil.
- Space plants at least 48-60 inches apart.
- Keep soil consistently moist throughout the growing season.
- Fertilize regularly for best growth.
Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Late Spring after the last frost through Early Summer
Nativity to Texas: No
- Winter Luxury Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo 'Winter Luxury')
Sun Requirements: Full Sun
Water Requirements: Moderate to high
Height: Vines can spread up to 12 feet
Description: Winter Luxury Pumpkin is celebrated for its velvety, lace-like netting over a pale orange skin, which gives it a luxurious appearance. The flesh is fine-grained and sweet, ideal for gourmet pies. This variety is often considered one of the best pie pumpkins due to its smooth texture and rich flavor.
Planting Tips:
- Plant in well-drained, fertile soil.
- Space vines 72-96 inches apart to allow ample growth.
- Water deeply, especially during dry spells.
- Use mulch to maintain soil moisture and control weeds.
Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Late Spring after the last frost through Early Summer
Nativity to Texas: No
- Big Max Pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima 'Big Max')
Sun Requirements: Full Sun
Water Requirements: High
Height: Vines can spread 10-20 feet
Description: Big Max is known for producing massive pumpkins that commonly weigh 100 pounds or more, ideal for large jack-o'-lanterns and impressive displays. The skin is bright orange, and the flesh is thick and moderately sweet, suitable for various culinary uses including soups and purees.
Planting Tips:
- Plant in a sunny location with ample space.
- Provide plenty of water to support its large fruit size.
- Fertilize with a high-nitrogen formula early in the season, then switch to a phosphorus-rich formula during fruit development.
Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Late Spring after the last frost through Early Summer
Nativity to Texas: No
- Jack O' Lantern Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo 'Jack O' Lantern')
Sun Requirements: Full Sun
Water Requirements: Moderate to high
Height: Vines can spread up to 10-15 feet
Description: Jack O' Lantern is the classic pumpkin for Halloween carving, with its ideal size, shape, and internal cavity. The skin is a vibrant orange and the flesh is mild and slightly sweet, also good for pies and baking. This variety is a favorite for both its decorative and culinary qualities.
Planting Tips:
- Plant in well-drained soil enriched with compost.
- Space plants about 48-72 inches apart.
- Maintain even moisture throughout the growing season.
- Harvest when the skin turns a deep, solid color and is hard to the touch.
Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Late Spring after the last frost through Early Summer
Nativity to Texas: No