Up until a few years ago, pumpkins were considered poor people's food. In the meantime, the versatile berries can even be found on the menus of noble cousin restaurants. In particular, the Hokkaido pumpkin, which not only tastes particularly aromatic and does not even have to be peeled, is responsible for this triumph. If you have a garden, it is worth growing the autumnal superfood yourself. We'll tell you how.
The Hokkaido pumpkin feels best in nutrient-rich soil
location and soil
The cultivated forms of this pumpkin thread their way to us from the Japanese island of Hokkaido. The plants find optimal conditions on the fertile soil of the island. In our latitudes, the heavy feeders like to be placed near the compost heap, where they benefit from the nutrient-rich seepage water. The location should also be sunny and somewhat sheltered.
sowing and planting
After the ice saints, you can sow the pumpkins directly outdoors or in the room. To do this, proceed as follows:
- Fill the growing pot with a soil-sand mixture or special growing soil.
- Press the seeds lightly into the substrate.
- Pour gently and cover with a clear cap.
- Keep evenly moist but not too wet.
- The germination period is about eight days.
- As soon as the plants are about five centimeters high, prick them out.
When planting outdoors in mid-May to early June, you should keep a minimum distance of one meter. As a result, the hungry plants do not compete for water and nutrients and set more fruit.
care and fertilization
As soon as the first small fruits form, the Hokkaido have an increased water requirement. However, it is essential to water in a targeted manner and not on the leaves, as this increases the risk of powdery mildew. Otherwise, you can safely let the pumpkins grow and don't have to worry too much about them.
To prevent the growing fruits from rotting, it is advisable to place a layer of straw under them.
Good and bad neighbors
Pumpkins do better when you grow them near sunflowers or sweetcorn, as these plants provide light shade. The Hokkaido, on the other hand, feels less comfortable around potatoes.
tips
Hokkaido are ripe when you can no longer scratch the skin with your fingernail. If you knock on the pumpkin, it sounds hollow. The color is then very strong and the stems look woody. You can store the pumpkins at 10 to 15 degrees for up to six months.