Peanut Warts Pumpkin (also known as Cucurbita maxima ‘Peanut Warts’) is a unique and fun variety of pumpkin with distinctive, bumpy skin that resembles warts or bumps. This heirloom pumpkin has orange skin with a rough texture and is often used for ornamental purposes, but it can also be edible, with a sweet, flavorful flesh. Here’s a care guide to help you grow Peanut Warts pumpkins successfully:

1. Planting Location

Sunlight: Peanut Warts pumpkins need full sun to thrive, so choose a location that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Soil: Pumpkins prefer well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter. They grow best in slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0-6.8). Make sure the soil is loose and rich in nutrients to support the large vines and fruit.

2. Planting Seeds

When to Plant: Wait until the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to about 70°F (21°C). This typically means planting in late spring or early summer, depending on your local climate.
Spacing: Plant seeds about 1 inch deep and space them 3-4 feet apart in rows or 4-6 feet between plants if growing in mounds. Pumpkins have long vines that need plenty of space to spread out.
Mounds or Hills: Planting on mounds or hills (a raised soil bed) helps with drainage and warmth. You can create a mound about 12 inches high and 2-3 feet wide for each plant.

3. Watering

Consistent Moisture: Pumpkins need a lot of water during the growing season, especially when the fruits are developing. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Watering Technique: Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can promote fungal diseases. A soaker hose or drip irrigation works well for deep watering.
Avoid Overwatering: While pumpkins like moisture, excessive water can lead to rot or disease, especially in poorly draining soil.

4. Fertilization

Pre-Plant Fertilizing: Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to provide essential nutrients.
During Growing Season: Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, or one designed for vegetables or pumpkins. Apply a slow-release fertilizer or feed monthly with a liquid fertilizer for best results.
Avoid Over-Nitrogen Fertilizing: Too much nitrogen can cause excessive leafy growth at the expense of fruit production.

5. Supporting the Plants

Vine Care: Peanut Warts pumpkins produce sprawling vines, so you may need to manage them carefully. To prevent overcrowding, prune back some vines and leaves to allow for better airflow.
Fruit Support: If your pumpkins grow large, consider placing them on a raised platform (such as a piece of plywood) or on a bed of straw to keep them off the ground and prevent rot.

6. Pests and Diseases

Common Pests: Watch for common pumpkin pests like squash bugs, cucumber beetles, and aphids. If you see pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them naturally.
Diseases: Pumpkins are susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew, especially in humid conditions. Prevent fungal issues by providing plenty of space between plants for good airflow, watering at the base, and removing any infected leaves immediately.
Squash Vine Borers: These pests can burrow into pumpkin vines. You can prevent them by covering the base of the plant with a barrier (such as row covers) early in the season, or manually removing larvae when discovered.

7. Harvesting

Timing: Peanut Warts pumpkins usually take around 90-100 days to reach maturity. The pumpkins are ready for harvest when the skin is deep orange, the stem is dry and hard, and the pumpkin produces a hollow sound when tapped.
Cutting the Stem: When harvesting, use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the pumpkin from the vine, leaving a 2-3 inch stem attached to the pumpkin. This helps prolong its shelf life.
Storage: Store harvested pumpkins in a cool, dry place with good airflow. They can last for several months if stored properly.

8. Curing

After harvesting, it’s a good idea to cure the pumpkins for about 10-14 days in a warm, dry place (around 80°F or 27°C). This process helps harden the skin and extend their storage life.

9. Propagation

Seed Saving: If you want to save seeds for next year, make sure the pumpkins are fully mature. Scoop out the seeds, wash them, and let them dry completely before storing them in a cool, dry place.

Quick Care Summary:

Sunlight: Full sun (6-8 hours daily).
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy).
Soil: Well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic soil.
Fertilization: Balanced fertilizer or compost before and during the growing season.
Spacing: 3-4 feet apart or 4-6 feet between plants.
Harvest: When skin turns orange and the stem is hard and dry.
Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place with good airflow.

With these care tips, your Peanut Warts pumpkins should grow into vibrant, unique fruits that are perfect for fall decoration, cooking, or enjoying as a decorative element in your garden!