The sugar pie pumpkin, with its vibrant orange hue and endearing round shape, is a delightful gem in the world of pumpkins. Unlike its larger counterparts, the sugar pie pumpkin is petite, usually weighing between two to four pounds, making it the perfect size for culinary endeavors. Its smooth, firm skin encapsulates a rich, sweet flesh that promises a burst of flavor in every bite. The deep orange color of the exterior, contrasted with the sunny yellow of the interior, creates a visual feast that beckons the senses.
Growing sugar pie pumpkins is a gratifying experience that requires minimal effort and offers substantial rewards. These pumpkins thrive in well drained, fertile soil, basking in full sunlight for at least six hours a day. Planting should commence after the last frost, with seeds sown directly into the earth, spaced generously to allow for their sprawling vines. The plants appreciate regular watering, particularly during dry spells, but be mindful to avoid waterlogging the roots. As the vines extend and the leaves unfurl, the garden transforms into a lush tapestry of green, punctuated by the bright yellow blossoms that herald the arrival of the pumpkins.
Harvesting these charming pumpkins is a moment of pure joy. Their stems should be firm and green, and the skin should resist gentle pressure when they are ready to be picked. Once harvested, sugar pie pumpkins can be stored in a cool, dry place for several months, allowing their flavors to further develop. Whether roasted, pureed, or baked into a decadent pie, the sugar pie pumpkin offers a versatile ingredient that brings a touch of natural sweetness and a splash of autumnal color to any dish. Their ease of cultivation and delightful aesthetic make them a cherished addition to any garden, promising both beauty and bounty. (C. pepo)
- QTY: 25
- Seed Planting Depth: 1 to 1.5"
- Germination Temperature: 75-90
- Days to Germination: 3-10
- Row Spacing: 36"
- Plant Spacing: 48"
- Sun: Full
- Harvest time: 90 to 120 days
How to Save Seeds
Pumpkins are actually from the squash family. So they will cross will different types of squash. There are 4 groups of commonly grown varieties of squash. Cucurbita pepo, Cucurbita Maxima, Cucurbita moschata, Cucurbita mixta. With this in mind any variety from the same species or in other terms with the same last name of the 4 species listed above will cross and must be separated 500ft. For instance you can't grow two pepo varieties together or they will cross. Side note: Be sure to check what type of squash you have in order to determine cross pollination chances. Squash and pumpkins can be seed harvested the same way. Let them stay on the vine until fall and then cut off the vine let sit for a week and then cut them open scoop out flesh and place in water. Wash seeds and place them on a screen rack for drying or paper. Turn often so they are able to fully dry a week or so and then properly them store accordingly.