Pumpkin Seeds - Cinderella

The Cinderella Pumpkin, also known as Rouge Vif d'Etampes, is a striking heirloom variety with a distinctive flattened, ribbed shape and deep red-orange color. Often called the “fairy tale” pumpkin, its vivid appearance and rich flavor make it an excellent choice for both decorative and culinary purposes. This variety is particularly celebrated for its use in French cuisine, where it is commonly roasted or used in soups and stews.

Key Benefits

• Unique Appearance: The Cinderella pumpkin’s flattened shape and vibrant, red-orange color make it a standout in any garden or fall display.
• Versatile Use: While perfect for autumn decoration, it also has a rich, sweet flavor that makes it ideal for culinary applications like soups, pies, and roasting.
• Large Yield: Each vine produces multiple medium-to-large pumpkins, offering a bountiful harvest.
• Heirloom Variety: A historic, non-GMO variety with a rich tradition in European and North American gardens.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: The vines can spread 8–10 feet in length, with large, deep green leaves.
• Fruit Profile: The pumpkins are large and flattened with prominent ribs. They weigh between 10–20 pounds and have a deep red-orange skin with a rich, sweet flesh.
• Size: Typically 10–20 inches in diameter and 6–8 inches in height.
• Maturity: This variety matures in about 100–120 days, offering a longer growing season compared to some other pumpkin varieties.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before the last frost, or sow directly outdoors after the last frost in spring.
• Prefers warm soil and temperatures between 70°F–85°F (21°C–29°C) for optimal germination and growth.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1 inch deep in the soil.
• Spacing: Space seeds or seedlings about 3–5 feet apart to accommodate the sprawling vines.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
• Sunlight: Full sun is required for strong growth and fruit production.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist, especially during fruit-setting stages. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
• Water at the base of the plant to keep the leaves dry and prevent rot.

Fertilization

• Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) during the early growth phase.
• Switch to a phosphorus- and potassium-heavy fertilizer once the pumpkins start to form, to promote strong fruit development.

Weeding and Mulching

• Mulch around the base to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain an even soil temperature.
• Regularly remove weeds to minimize competition for nutrients and space.

Pest and Disease Control

• Watch for common pests such as squash bugs, aphids, and cucumber beetles. Consider using organic pest control methods or insecticidal soap.
• Keep an eye on fungal diseases like powdery mildew and apply treatments as needed.

Harvesting

When to Harvest

• Harvest when the pumpkin skin is fully mature and has reached a deep red-orange color. The stem should be dry and brown, and the skin should be hard to the touch.
• Avoid harvesting too early, as pumpkins need time to fully mature for the best flavor and storage life.

How to Harvest

• Cut the pumpkin from the vine using sharp scissors or pruning shears, leaving a couple of inches of stem attached.
• Handle pumpkins carefully to avoid bruising or damaging the skin.

Storage

• Fresh Storage: Store harvested pumpkins in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight. They can be stored for 2–3 months if kept in proper conditions (50°F–60°F / 10°C–15°C).
• Long-Term Storage: For long-term storage, ensure pumpkins are kept in a well-ventilated area with consistent temperature and humidity.

Culinary Uses

• Soups and Stews: The sweet, smooth flesh of the Cinderella pumpkin makes it an excellent addition to soups, stews, and curries.
• Roasting: Slice and roast the pumpkin for a flavorful side dish or add it to salads and other roasted vegetable dishes.
• Pumpkin Pie: Its rich, sweet flavor is perfect for making pumpkin pies and other baked goods.
• Purees: Make a smooth puree to use in a variety of dishes, including risottos, dips, and more.

Conclusion

The Cinderella Pumpkin is a versatile, heirloom variety that combines beauty with delicious culinary potential. Its striking appearance makes it a popular choice for fall decorations, while its sweet, smooth flesh is perfect for cooking and baking. Whether you’re looking to add a unique touch to your garden or enjoy its flavorful flesh in the kitchen, this pumpkin variety is sure to impress.