Cucurbita maxima ATLANTIC GIANT SQUASH (5 seeds)

Giant Pumpkin, also known as Atlantic Giant or Gigantic Squash, is a creeping plant from the Cucurbitaceae family. Its fruit is unique for its completely extraordinary size. It is the largest variety in the world, with a weight record exceeding 770 kg. Its growth is very vigorous and rapid, with the plant measuring between 2 and 4 meters in length.

It is cultivated like all other cucurbits, except it requires a massive amount of water to reach its enormous potential. It is recommended to remove all other fruits from the plant to keep only one.

Its foliage is large, dark green, and highly indented, with deeply ribbed lobes. The leaves are rough to the touch, giving them a robust appearance. The flowers are large and bright yellow or orange. They appear in summer, either in groups or solitary, and emit a pleasant fragrance. Male flowers have a long pedicel, while females bear small developing fruits at their base. Their beauty and scent attract pollinators, which are essential for growth.

Giant pumpkin seeds are elongated, cream-colored, and quite large, measuring up to 3 centimeters in length.

- Uses:

This is a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. It can be baked, made into soup or roasted. Its mild and sweet flesh makes it a perfect choice for pies, gratins, or risottos.

In autumn, it becomes a decorative symbol in homes and gardens. It is often used to create colorful arrangements, whether by carving faces for Halloween or arranging them in natural compositions.
Beyond its culinary and decorative uses, the squash is rich in vitamins (especially Vitamin A), antioxidants, and fiber.  Do not use for medicinal purposes without seeking medical advice.
It helps strengthen the immune system, improve digestion, and maintain skin health.

- Germination and Sowing Seeds:

• The best period to sow Gigantic Squash is in April under shelter.
• It is highly recommended to soak the seeds for 12 hours in lukewarm water to accelerate germination and break dormancy.
• Prepare 15 cm diameter pots with fine potting soil.
• Bury the seeds one by one per pot at a depth of 0.5 cm.
• Lightly pack the substrate.
• Water gently and place the culture in a greenhouse at a minimum of 20°C.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

Giant pumpkins prefer rich, deep, and well-drained soil. A light, sandy, or loamy substrate enriched with compost or organic matter promotes optimal development.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

They require full sun exposure for vigorous growth. A location receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal for promoting flowering and fruit maturation.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

Pumpkins are sensitive to cold temperatures. The ideal temperature range is between 20 and 30°C. They are generally hardy in frost-free zones but can be grown outdoors in temperate regions if the risk of frost has passed.

- Irrigation / Water Needs:

Regular and deep watering is essential, especially during active growth and fruiting periods. These squashes like soil that is constantly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching can help retain moisture and reduce evaporation.

- Multiplication:

Multiplication is mainly carried out by direct sowing in the ground or in pots under shelter. Division of plants is also possible but less common.

- Pests / Diseases:

Main pests include the cabbage white butterfly, spider mites, and the squash fly. Common diseases are downy mildew and fusarium wilt.