About

Cucurbita pepo 'Rocket' is a medium-sized pumpkin variety that can grow plants reaching heights of up to 90 cm (3 ft) and spreading across 2.4 m (8 ft). Each plant typically yields three to four bright orange, ribbed pumpkins, which mature late in the season and can weigh between 5 and 9 kg (12-20 lbs). Once fully ripened on the vine, these pumpkins have good storage capability throughout the winter months.

About the genus

This genus consists of small, annual herbaceous plants that either climb or trail. Several species within this group are cultivated for their edible fruits and other applications. They originate from Central and South America. The flowers are typically solitary and star-shaped, exhibiting a golden-yellow hue. The leaves are characterized by their palmately lobed structure and are adorned with fine, prickly hairs.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H2

Plant details

Plant type

Annual Biennial

Habit

Trailing

Foliage

Deciduous

Height

0.5-1 metres

Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Time to full height

1 year

Suggested uses

Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens

Toxicity

Humans/Pets: If crop is bitter, don't eat or feed to pets. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling

Care notes

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, moisture retentive but well drained, acidic to neutral soil in full sun. Sow indoors March to May in good quality seed compost. Sow the seeds on their side 1cm deep and maintain a constant temperature of 18-21C. Feed regularly with a high potassium fertiliser when the first fruits start to swell. See pumpkin cultivation for further advice

Pruning

No pruning required

Propagation

Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds or sowing seeds indoors for further advice

Pest resistance

Generally pest-free

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to grey moulds and powdery mildews