Jack O’Lantern is the perfect size for Halowe’en lights and is the traditional pumpkin to be used for carving. The skin is golden orange and the flesh is fine flavoured and deep orange, and is a versitile fruit in that it can be roasted, baked, or made into a variety of dishes such as soup or pie. This particular variety stores through the winter and is ready in about four months from sowing.

WHEN TO SOW

April to May under glass Mid May to June outdoors

Where to Sow

Sow seed on edge 1.5cm (1/2″”) deep to prevent rotting in pots or trays during April to May 2.5cm (1″”) apart under glass at 20°C (68°F) using good quality seed sowing compost. Sow outdoors mid-May to June direct into growing site 1.5cm (1/2″”) deep 2 to 3 seeds in each position 60cm (24″”) apart.

What to do next

Greenhouse sowings should be gradually hardened off once they have developed the first pair of rough leaves and transplanted to growing site in late-May to early-June 60-90cm (24-36″”) apart once all risk of frost has past. Outdoor sowings should be thinned to one plant per station.

MATURITY

September to October

HANDY TIP

Always grow pumpkins in a sunny spot in rich fertile soil. Water regularly once fruits start to swell.

NUTRITIONAL VALUE

A good source of pro-vitamin A, vitamins B1, C and E.