Squash plant 'Sweetmax'

Planting out Pumpkin & Squash: Once all danger of frost has passed in late May or early June, plant them out into their final growing positions. Choose a sheltered, sunny spot and dig in lots of garden compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting. Plant at least 90cm apart, according to the variety. Cover the surrounding soil with a mulch of garden compost to retain moisture. It's a good idea to insert a bamboo cane next to each plant, so you will always be able to find its centre for watering, no matter how large each plant grows.

Cover young plants with a cloche to ward against slugs and snails.

After planting, pumpkins and squash plants will rapidly put on growth. Depending on space, either let them trail over the ground or train them up a support. Stems touching the ground can be pegged down to encourage them to root down into the soil.

Pumpkins and squashes have distinct male and female flowers. The female can be identified by a swelling behind it, which will eventually develop into a pumpkin or fruit. In colder or wetter summers, pollination may need assistance. One way to do this is by removing a male flower and carefully inserting it into the female flower to transfer pollen from the stamen to the stigma.

As plants mature, ensure that the surrounding soil is free of weeds. The large leaves will naturally prevent any unwanted growth. Remember to regularly water plants, especially during dry spells. As pumpkins and squash grow, carefully place them on a brick or straw to avoid contact with the ground. Additionally, remove any foliage obstructing the fruits to aid in ripening.

Harvesting Pumpkins:
Harvest pumpkins and squash when the stem cracks and the skin hardens. Pick before the first frosts in October or November and aim for the longest possible stem.

Grown in individual cells with a bio-degradable membrane will break down in the soil, no need to remove before planting. These are large plugs than our other sizes and can be planted straight into their final position or pot and grow on to form larger plants that can be planted later in the season. Protect from frost if necessary.

Pumpkins and squash are hungry plants and will benefit from a fertile soil enhanced with well-rotted manure or compost.