Ripe conditions for a pumpkin

The weather this year has had mixed effects on pumpkin quality and supply.

A wet start to the year followed by a drier summer generally helped with growth, but inconsistent temperatures and unexpected late-season rain have led to some challenges.

The variable weather has also led to a staggered harvest, affecting supply consistency. While some pumpkins are thriving, others have suffered from rot and disease due to excess moisture.

This contrasts last year's inclement weather, which produced a very good value for money harvest, according to Tesco.

A staple of the autumn season, is the bright orange colours that both foliage and pumpkins provide, ripening in the sun.

Pumpkins are generally easy and fun to grow, provided they have plenty of sunshine and plenty of water. They also don't particularly like a cold wind.

Given pumpkins are made up of roughly 80% water, as British farmer Ian Pigott explained in the video below from October 2023, water for them is imperative.

If they do not receive enough water, like was the case through summer of 2022, they will come out smaller than normal.

Pumpkins should be planted in May, ideally towards the end of the month. They should be planted indoors or in cold frames, or at least moved indoors at night-time, and then relocated outdoors from early June once the frost risk has passed.

The ideal temperature for a pumpkin is between 18 - 30°C during the daytime, and at night shouldn't drop below 15°C. They also grow best with at least six hours of sunlight per day, so they can turn that brilliant shade of orange.

So, the variable weather in recent months may mean your favourite pumpkins may take a little longer to pick from the variety out there!