Cucurbita pepo
TAXONOMY
FamilyCucurbitaceae
GenusCucurbita
Zone3
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Cucurbita pepo, commonly known as pumpkin, zucchini, or squash, is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family. Native to North America, this annual plant thrives in subtropical climates and is widely cultivated for its edible fruits. It has a sprawling growth habit and produces large, lobed leaves and yellow flowers.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Citrullus Variegatus
Cucumis Zapallo
Fordhook Zucchini
Jack O Lantern
Pumpkin
Squash
Zucchini
Cucumis pepo
Cucurbita aurantia
Cucurbita ceratoceras
Cucurbita clodiensis
Cucurbita courgero
Cucurbita elongata
Cucurbita esculenta
Cucurbita fastuosa
Cucurbita hybrida
Cucurbita lignosa
Cucurbita mammeata
Cucurbita mammosa
Cucurbita marsupiiformis
Cucurbita oblonga
Cucurbita pepo subsp. gumala
Cucurbita pepo subsp. pepo
Cucurbita pepo subvar. nigra
Cucurbita pepo var. akoda
Cucurbita pepo var. americana
Cucurbita pepo var. bicolor
Cucurbita pepo var. condensa
Cucurbita pepo var. elongata
Cucurbita pepo var. fibropulposa
Cucurbita pepo var. flogra
Cucurbita pepo var. georgica
Cucurbita pepo var. kintogwa
Cucurbita pepo var. medullosa
Cucurbita pepo var. melopepo
Cucurbita pepo var. praecox
Cucurbita pepo var. toonas
Cucurbita pepo var. torticollis
Cucurbita pepo var. vulgaris
Cucurbita polymorpha
Cucurbita pomiformis
Cucurbita pyridaris
Cucurbita pyxidaris
Cucurbita succado
Cucurbita succedo
Cucurbita tuberculosa
Cucurbita urnigera
Cucurbita variegata
Cucurbita venosa
Pepo aurantius
Pepo citrullus
Pepo clypeiformis
Pepo oblongus
Pepo potiron
Pepo vulgaris
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD1,350
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Cucurbita pepo requires full sun and warm temperatures to thrive. It should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out partially between waterings. The plant prefers moderate humidity and should be protected from frost. Regular monitoring for pests and diseases is essential.Harvest
Cucurbita pepo, commonly known as pumpkin or squash, should be harvested when the fruit has reached its full color and the rind is hard. This typically occurs about 90 days after planting. To harvest, cut the fruit from the vine with a sharp knife or pruners, leaving a few inches of stem attached to the fruit to prolong storage life. It is best to harvest before the first frost, as frost can damage the fruit. Handle the fruit carefully to avoid bruising, and cure them in a warm, dry place for about a week to harden the skin further before storage.Soil
Cucurbita pepo prefers well-draining loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot and other soil-borne diseases.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10 should be applied every few weeks during the growing season. This will support healthy growth and fruit production. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit development.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for Cucurbita pepo, as it is typically grown directly in the ground or in large containers. If grown in containers, ensure they are large enough to accommodate the plant's extensive root system and repot if the plant becomes root-bound.Propagation
Cucurbita pepo is typically propagated by seeds. Sow seeds directly in the ground after the last frost date or start them indoors a few weeks before transplanting. Ensure the soil is warm and well-drained for optimal germination.Pruning
Pruning is beneficial for Cucurbita pepo to encourage healthy growth and fruit production. Remove any dead or diseased leaves and thin out overcrowded areas to improve air circulation. Pinching off the tips of the vines can also promote bushier growth.Toxicity
Cucurbita pepo is not toxic to pets or humans. However, the leaves and stems can be prickly and may cause minor skin irritation in sensitive individuals. The fruits are safe to eat and are commonly used in cooking.Additional
To maximize fruit production, consider using a trellis or support system to keep the vines off the ground. This can help prevent fruit rot and make harvesting easier. Regularly check for pests such as squash bugs and cucumber beetles, and take appropriate measures to control them.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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