Every year, millions of pumpkins are used for decoration, but ever
wondered about the food waste? Fear not, here are some tips on
how to use this year's pumpkin seeds to grow your own next year.
Step 1: Scoop out the seeds when carving your
pumpkin. Rinse the seeds in a colander, removing any pumpkin flesh.
Dry the seeds thoroughly and store in a cool dark place.
Step 2: Sow your pumpkin seeds April or May, once the
risk of frost has passed. Start them inside in 8cm pots in seedling
compost and re-pot them when they are a few centimetres tall and have
their first leaves.
Step 3: Gradually move them outside so they get used
to the cooler temperatures. Pot them either in containers (for smaller
pumpkin varieties), in grow bags or in a veg patch. Growing them
against a trellis can create beautiful hanging vines and reduces risk
of pests and disease.
Step 4: Continue to look out for pests and disease,
removing any dead leaves or signs of powdered mildew. When the fruits
start to form, place them on stone slabs or bricks to reduce rotting
and pest attacks.
Top tip: Ensure the pumpkin vine is on top (don't let
the fruit lie on its side) this will ensure your pumpkin grows round
and even on all sides.