Pumpkin Seeds - Rouge Vif d'Etampes

The Rouge Vif d'Etampes pumpkin, also known as the Cinderella Pumpkin, is a stunning heirloom variety renowned for its unique, deep red-orange color and flattened, ribbed shape. This French heritage pumpkin has been a staple of gardens for centuries and is prized for both its striking appearance and its culinary versatility. Perfect for adding a rustic, vintage charm to your fall displays or for use in delicious savory and sweet recipes.

Key Benefits

• Distinctive Appearance: This pumpkin has a flattened, round shape with pronounced ribs and a vivid red-orange hue, making it a favorite for ornamental displays.
• Heirloom Variety: Passed down through generations, this non-GMO, open-pollinated variety is perfect for organic gardeners.
• Culinary Delight: The flesh is sweet and dense, perfect for cooking and baking, from pumpkin pies to savory stews.
• Long-Lasting: When harvested correctly, Rouge Vif d'Etampes pumpkins can store well into the winter, making them a great choice for long-term enjoyment.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: The vines of Rouge Vif d'Etampes are medium-length, with a spreading growth habit. The plants can reach about 10–15 feet in length, so ensure there is ample space for them to grow.
• Fruit Profile: The pumpkins are large, with a flattened globe shape, deep ribbing, and a rich red-orange color. Each pumpkin typically weighs 10–15 pounds, but can grow larger in optimal conditions.
• Maturity: These pumpkins mature in about 100–120 days, making them ideal for growing in most climates with a moderate growing season.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Plant seeds directly in the ground after the last frost date when the soil is warm and temperatures stay above 70°F (21°C). Alternatively, start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before the last frost and transplant once the danger of frost has passed.
• Rouge Vif d'Etampes pumpkins thrive in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1 inch deep.
• Spacing: Space seeds or transplants 3–5 feet apart, as the vines will spread and need room to grow.
• Soil Requirements: These pumpkins prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0) that is rich in organic matter. Incorporate compost or aged manure into the soil for best results.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Provide consistent watering, especially during the fruit-setting stage, to ensure the pumpkins grow large and healthy. Water deeply but avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
• Mulching around the base of the plants helps conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Fertilization

• Begin with a balanced fertilizer when planting, then switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer once the plants begin to fruit. Excessive nitrogen can result in excessive vine growth with fewer pumpkins.

Weeding and Mulching

• Keep the area around the plants free of weeds, as they can compete for nutrients and water.
• Mulching around the plants will help reduce weed growth, maintain moisture levels, and protect the soil from temperature extremes.

Pest and Disease Control

• Be on the lookout for common pumpkin pests like squash bugs, aphids, and cucumber beetles. Organic insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control these pests.
• Powdery mildew can also affect pumpkins, so ensure proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

Harvesting

When to Harvest

• Rouge Vif d'Etampes pumpkins are ready to harvest when their skin has hardened and turned a rich red-orange, and the stem has dried and turned brown.
• The pumpkins should feel heavy for their size, and the skin should be tough and difficult to pierce with a fingernail.

How to Harvest

• Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the pumpkin from the vine, leaving about 3–4 inches of stem attached. Handle gently, as the skin can be delicate.

Storage

• Fresh Storage: Store harvested pumpkins in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. A basement, cellar, or cool garage works well for long-term storage.
• Long-Term Storage: Properly cured and stored Rouge Vif d'Etampes pumpkins can last for several months, allowing you to enjoy them well into the winter.

Culinary Uses

• Pumpkin Pies: The flesh of Rouge Vif d'Etampes is sweet, rich, and perfect for making smooth, flavorful pumpkin pies.
• Soups and Purees: Its dense flesh holds up well when cooked, making it an excellent choice for savory soups, stews, and purees.
• Roasting: Slice the pumpkin into wedges, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for a delicious, sweet, caramelized flavor.
• Baking: The pumpkin’s flesh can be pureed and used in a variety of baked goods like muffins, bread, or even in savory dishes like risotto.

Conclusion

The Rouge Vif d'Etampes pumpkin, or Cinderella Pumpkin, is a truly unique and versatile variety. Its beautiful appearance and sweet, dense flesh make it a favorite for both ornamental purposes and culinary use. Whether you’re looking to create stunning fall displays or bake a pumpkin pie with a rich, flavorful twist, this heirloom pumpkin is sure to impress.