Some plants grow horizontally while others grow vertically, but pumpkins are those kinds of plants that grow horizontally along the ground.
Here are the top 5 things to consider when planting pumpkins. Your plant may not grow successfully if you neglect to follow these suggestions.
Pumpkin plants grow horizontally along the ground as they are creeper pants. They require a lot of energy and are grown from their delicate veins. They also require a lot of space. It is best to grow them on the ground about 3 feet apart from each other.
To understand why pumpkin plants will grow horizontally, let us first learn how to grow a pumpkin the right way. Let us read more to find out.
Why Do Pumpkin Plants Grow Horizontally Along The Ground?
The pumpkin plants are found to grow horizontally along the ground instead of vertically for some of their unique characteristics.
There are various reasons for this being the case. Let us continue reading to learn about them.
1. Plant type
Pumpkins are usually referred to as creeper plants. The reason behind this is how big the fruit is.
It cannot grow on trees like other plants. Pumpkins cannot also climb or lean on other trees to stay upright. They are, in most cases, grown very close to the ground on neutral or acidic soil.
2. Weight
Another factor for a pumpkin to be on the ground is that it is very heavy.
Even if you try to grow a pumpkin vertically with support, you will find the pumpkin still hanging off because of its size and weight.
The weight of the fruit makes it sprout and start touching the ground.
You do not want your pumpkin to fall off from its vein before it is fully grown because of its weight.
This is why it is, in most scenarios, grown as a ground plant. The ground also supports the plant to take its shape and become round and full.
3. Pumpkins require a lot of energy
Another concern when growing pumpkins is that the fruit requires a lot of energy for its large shape.
Plants like pumpkins are spread over the flat open ground to sit on the soil below and cover the surface.
This helps such plants capture more sunlight. For best results, keep them on the ground. Climbing plants usually get shaded by the structure they are held up with.
4. Grows on vines
Pumpkin fruits grow on veins. Their veins can spread out across the ground for more than 20 to 30 feet. These veins keep developing even when the pumpkins come into contact with the soil below.
When growing pumpkins, you need to manage these veins. You will find them to cross borders or even pots that you designed for your pumpkin to grow in.
While being grounded, these veins can spread themselves out through the ground and also help to get water to its leaves.
5. Pumpkins require space
If you are looking to harvest pumpkins, you need to be aware of the amount of space you need. Pumpkins are big fruits that take up huge spaces. If you wish to grow vertically, you will need a lot of support.
It is best to grow on the ground because you can make use of your garden and spread it across the field. They also need about 3 feet of distance from each other to grow fully and not fall on each other.
Now that you understand why a pumpkin plant grows horizontally along the ground, there are, however, ways to make it grow vertically. Let us look at how.
Can You Grow Pumpkin Plants Vertically?
Yes, you can grow your pumpkins vertically. You can train your Pumpkins to grow their way up a trellis and be vertical. They make a great addition when you have less space and need a vertical garden.
Due to their weights, for your pumpkins to grow, you will require very strong support. A sturdy vertical structure can help support the weight of a pumpkin as it matures.
You may also place a thick piece of cardboard on the floor and then grow your pumpkin over it. This will make the pumpkin start growing upside down. Make sure your cardboard has enough strength to hold the pumpkins vertically.
Once the pumpkins start to take shape, you should make a support hammock by tying it with wires or old pieces of clothing so the pumpkin can attach itself and rest on the trellis.
These supports will help the veins of the pumpkin wrap themselves around and climb up to the top. If the support is strong enough, pumpkins will hang from these wires or items of clothing and start growing vertically.
How To Grow Pumpkins Properly?
When growing pumpkins, the first thing you should keep in mind is to start your plantations as early as summer to have enough time for them to grow near the edge of your garden.
There are a few other tips you’ll need to grow them properly. Here is how.
Soil
When growing pumpkins, you should always look for a sunny location. Make sure the sunlight reaches the soil directly.
It is always best to grow your pumpkins on slightly acidic soil or just neutral. You should also raise the soil base because it is good for pumpkins. This keeps pumpkins well-drained and moist.
Sow
For your pumpkins to grow healthy, you will need to sow them properly. Start by soaking the seeds in water for a day. Make sure the water is warm enough to promote germination. Sow them directly on the garden beds to get the best results.
For grounded beds, you should always try to keep a distance of 3 feet. This will help your pumpkins grow with their veins all spread out.
Maintain the plant
When it is almost time for the seeds to sprout, you should try to restrict the growing weeds around the seedlings with organic mulch.
You may also use grass cutters for this purpose. The main purpose of this is to remove weak seedlings.
The long veins of the pumpkin are what supply all the nutrients to the plant, which need to be maintained weekly.
Watering
When growing pumpkins, it is best to water them during the evening time. It is also wise to use a drip tube when watering pumpkins. This is because the supply of water then reaches directly to the roots.
There is also no excess water, which may lead to mildew. You should also deep drench once a week for the soil and plants to stay moist.
Harvest
When it comes to harvesting, pumpkins usually reach their full size in about three months.
This is when the fruit has ripened on the fruit’s vine. Leave the pumpkins on the vine to make them soften further. It will soon dry in the sun.
After you have your pumpkins, make sure to save all the seeds for your next batch.
Conclusion
Pumpkins grow to be unique in size and shape and happen to be very flavorsome. Plans like pumpkins are spread over the flat open ground to capture more sunlight.
They are to be kept 3 feet apart from each other, and the ground also supports the plant as it takes its shape and becomes round and full.
Sources:
https://www.almanac.com/plant/pumpkins
https://gardenerspath.com/plants/vegetables/trellis-pumpkin/