Book 29, Question 41
How do pumpkins grow so big?
A pumpkin vine collects sunlight, water, and nutrients and sends sugar to the growing fruit.
The fruit's cells keep dividing and swelling with water, and a giant pumpkin can gain dozens of pounds in a single day at its peak. The world record is over 2,500 pounds. Giant pumpkin growers pick special seeds, give lots of water and food, and protect the pumpkins from sun and wind.
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Quick answers
How do pumpkins grow so big?
Giant pumpkins grow best in soil that is well-drained, high in organic matter, and high in nutrients like phosphorus and potassium.
Source: University of Minnesota
More fun facts
- Modern monster-pumpkin genetics trace back to Nova Scotia grower Howard Dill, who spent 30 years selectively breeding giant pumpkins and developed ‘Dill's Atlantic Giant.' Every world champion since has come from its offspring.
- Giant pumpkins can take up about 500 gallons of water per week from late July to August when the fruit grows rapidly.
- To grow a giant pumpkin, it takes significant land, water and fertilizer.
- Growing giant pumpkins has become a popular gardener’s challenge in many parts of the country.
Sources: Oregon State University, University of Minnesota, Msstate