Pumpkin Seeds - Howdens Field

The Howdens Field pumpkin is a classic and highly productive variety known for its large, round, bright orange pumpkins. A popular choice among gardeners, this variety is perfect for creating traditional autumn displays, as well as for use in cooking and baking. With its robust plant growth and large fruit size, the Howdens Field pumpkin is great for both beginner and experienced gardeners.

Key Benefits

• Large, Round Fruit: Known for its traditional round shape and bright orange color, the Howdens Field pumpkin is ideal for making decorative displays, especially for Halloween.
• High Yield: This variety produces a large number of pumpkins per plant, ensuring a bountiful harvest.
• Culinary Versatility: The firm flesh of Howdens Field pumpkins is perfect for pies, soups, and other pumpkin-based dishes.
• Long Storage Life: These pumpkins store well for several months, making them a great variety to enjoy long after harvest season.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Howdens Field pumpkins grow on sturdy, sprawling vines and produce large, uniform pumpkins with thick, orange rinds. The pumpkins can grow from 15 to 25 pounds, with some even reaching up to 40 pounds under ideal growing conditions.
• Fruit Profile: The pumpkins have a classic orange color, with a deep, ribbed texture. The flesh is dense, sweet, and flavorful, making it perfect for culinary uses.
• Maturity: Howdens Field pumpkins generally take 100–120 days to reach full maturity, depending on weather conditions and care. They thrive in a warm growing season and are often harvested in late fall.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Plant Howdens Field pumpkin seeds after the last frost date, once the soil temperature has warmed to around 70°F (21°C). For early harvests, you can start seeds indoors 2–4 weeks before the last frost and transplant them outdoors once the soil is sufficiently warm.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Sow the seeds about 1–1.5 inches deep in well-drained, fertile soil.
• Spacing: Space plants 36–48 inches apart to give them ample room to spread.
• Soil Requirements: Howdens Field pumpkins grow best in rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Adding compost or organic matter will help the soil retain moisture and provide essential nutrients.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Regularly water the plants, ensuring that the soil stays evenly moist throughout the growing season. Avoid watering overhead to prevent fungal diseases, and instead focus on watering the base of the plant.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting, and as the plants begin to grow, switch to one higher in phosphorus and potassium to promote strong fruit development.

Weeding and Mulching

• Use mulch around the base of the plants to help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain stable soil temperatures.
• Keep the area around the plants weed-free to prevent competition for nutrients and to maintain healthy growth.

Pest and Disease Control

• Watch for pests such as squash bugs, aphids, and cucumber beetles, which can damage the leaves and fruits. Organic pesticides like neem oil can be helpful for controlling pest issues.
• Prevent fungal diseases by providing adequate air circulation and avoiding wetting the foliage.

Harvesting

When to Harvest

• Howdens Field pumpkins are typically ready to harvest when they have reached full size and color, and their skins have hardened. The rind should be a deep orange, and the stem should be dry and hardened.

How to Harvest

• Cut the pumpkins from the vine using a sharp knife or garden shears, leaving about 2–3 inches of stem. Handle the pumpkins carefully to avoid bruising.

Storage

• Storage Conditions: Store the harvested pumpkins in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space. Under ideal conditions, Howdens Field pumpkins can last 2–3 months, or even longer with proper care.
• Curing: After harvesting, allow the pumpkins to cure for about 10–14 days in a warm, dry location. This helps harden the rind and extend their shelf life.

Culinary Uses

• Pumpkin Pie: The sweet, dense flesh of Howdens Field pumpkins is perfect for making delicious pumpkin pies.
• Roasted Dishes: Roast the pumpkin in cubes or slices for a flavorful addition to soups, stews, or side dishes.
• Puree: Make your own fresh pumpkin puree for baking, smoothies, or homemade baby food.
• Soup: Use the rich flesh to create hearty, savory soups, often combined with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a comforting autumn dish.

Conclusion

The Howdens Field pumpkin is a reliable and versatile variety for gardeners seeking large, traditional pumpkins that offer both decorative and culinary value. Its high yield, ease of growth, and long storage life make it a standout choice for fall harvests. Whether you're carving pumpkins for Halloween or preparing homemade pumpkin pies, the Howdens Field pumpkin is sure to meet your needs.