Description
| Seeds | 10 seeds $2.95 |
|---|
Big Max (c.maxima)
Heritage: Ontario (Goderich), Canada
In the mid 1890’s Ontario farmer, William Warnock, developed this giant pumpkin variety for fair competition. His largest pumpkin grew to 400 pounds, and that year he was invited to show his Big Max pumpkin at the World Fair in Paris, France. This variety remained the largest pumpkin on record until the mid 1980’s when Nova Scotia farmer, Howard Dill, developed the Atlantic Giant.
Large, spreading vines produce pumpkins that are close to perfectly round growing as large as 18” (45cm) in diameter, and weighing up to 200lbs (90kg). Ground-side can sometimes become flattened because of weight. The deep ribbed skin is a vibrant red-orange in colour with thick, orange flesh. Texture is somewhat dry, with a mild, slightly sweet flavour. Good for use in soup or mashed with butter. This super-large variety is an excellent choice for competition and Halloween carving! Matures in 110-120 days. (3 seeds/g)
Tips for Growing Perfectly Plump Pumpkins! Pumpkins are heat loving plants and are usually planted outdoors when the ground has warmed. Seeds can be started indoors, but we find more vigorous growth when direct planted. It is important to pick a sunny spot so the large leaves can dry-out easily early in the morning to avoid water-born diseases. Hill-up soil and plant 2-4 seeds 1” (2.5 cm) deep. Thin to no more than 2 plants per hill. To enhance the size of your pumpkins, watch for early development of fruit and cut-off the new growth at the end of the vine to ensure all the energy is focusing on producing that one pumpkin. Again, more sun produces larger fruit. The most suitable companion plants for Pumpkins are; corn, beans and radishes. Do not plant near potatoes. They don’t play well together. Pumpkins usually germinate within 7-10days (70-75ºF/21-24ºC).
