Winter Squash Planting Time and Method

Pumpkin is a plant that likes warm and humid climates. In winter, if the local temperature is low, appropriate insulation measures should be taken. The following editor will introduce the time and method of planting winter pumpkins . Let’s take a look.

1. Planting time

Winter squash planting usually requires planting early in the fall so that it can be cultivated and managed during the winter. Generally speaking, the sowing date can start from mid-September to early October, so that the entire growth cycle of the pumpkin is about 90-100 days, which can ensure harvest in winter or early spring.

2. Land preparation and fertilization

Pumpkin has a well-developed root system and has high requirements for soil. It needs loose, fertile, well-drained sandy loam or loamy clay soil. It is especially important to improve the soil before planting in winter. Fully decomposed organic fertilizer can be applied as base fertilizer, and deep plowing and fine harrowing can be carried out to improve soil structure and increase ground temperature.

3. Seed treatment

Before planting, soak the seeds in warm water for 4-6 hours, place the seeds in an environment of 26-30℃ to germinate, and when the radicle extends 2-3mm outside the seed coat, prepare for sowing.

4. Sowing method

Winter squash can be grown by seedling transplanting. Generally, the seedlings are grown in greenhouses . The appropriate sowing period should be determined based on the climatic conditions of the year. The seedlings are about 20-30 days old and are transplanted when they have two true leaves. When sowing, pay special attention to placing the seeds flat in the nutrient pot, and cover the soil with a thickness of about 1 cm.

5. Water and fertilizer management

Pumpkins need sufficient water and nutrients during their growth period. In the early stages of growth, nutrients need to be properly controlled to prevent excessive growth; during the flowering and fruiting period, potassium fertilizer or compound fertilizer needs to be heavily applied to increase fruit yield and quality. At the same time, water or drain in time according to soil moisture and weather conditions.

6. Intertillage and weeding

After the pumpkin is planted and before the vines are extended to close the rows, inter-row cultivation and weeding should be carried out to promote root development. At the same time, it is necessary to add soil to the roots appropriately to form small ridges, which is conducive to drainage and prevention of diseases and pests.

7. Pruning and vine pressing

For varieties with too vigorous growth and many side branches, it is necessary to remove some side branches, weak branches, and overlapping branches to improve the ventilation and light conditions of the plants. For early-maturing pumpkins, vine pressing can be carried out to promote the development and ripening of the fruit.

The above is an introduction to the planting time and methods of winter pumpkins. Although winter pumpkins are relatively cold-resistant, they are also threatened by some diseases and pests, such as root rot and downy mildew. Therefore, it is important to check the condition of the plants regularly and take preventive measures.