Pumpkin- Queensland Blue

Pumpkin - Queensland Blue Seeds (Cucurbita maxima)

Description:

Queensland Blue Pumpkin is a medium to large heirloom variety known for its striking dark grey-blue ribbed skin and vibrant orange flesh. This pumpkin has a rich, sweet flavor and excellent storage qualities, lasting up to 6 months under proper conditions. Ideal for roasting, soups, and baking, Queensland Blue is a must-have for any home garden.

Plant Features:

• Plant Type: Annual vegetable
• Growth Habit: Trailing vine
• Fruit Size: Medium to large
• Skin Color: Dark grey/blue with ribbing
• Flesh Color: Bright orange
• Flavor: Sweet and rich
• Storage: Stores well for up to 6 months

Sowing Instructions:

• Best Sowing Time: Refer to climate-specific recommendations
• Sowing Depth: 20 mm
• Seed Spacing: 120 cm apart in rows 300 cm apart
• Germination Time: 5-10 days at 21-35°C
• Frost Sensitivity: Do not sow outdoors until all danger of frost has passed

Growing Conditions:

• Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6 hours per day)
• Soil: Well-drained, enriched with organic matter (compost or aged manure)
• Container Growing: Not recommended for vine pumpkins
• Watering:
  • Water deeply when the soil is dry 5 cm below the surface
  • Avoid watering foliage to prevent fungal diseases
• Fertilisation:
  • If soil is well-prepared, additional fertiliser is not necessary
  • In poor soil, use a balanced fertiliser for fruiting vegetables
  • Apply slow-release fertiliser when seedlings are 5-10 cm tall
  • Use liquid fertiliser during flowering and fruiting

Care & Maintenance:

• Support (For Vine Pumpkins):
  • Allow vines to sprawl (requires at least 2 square meters per plant) or train them on a strong trellis
  • Use plant ties for support and netting slings for large fruit
• Mulching:
  • Place straw or sugar cane mulch under ripening fruit to prevent rot
• Pest & Weather Protection:
  • Protect young seedlings from pests, pets, and harsh weather

Harvesting & Storage:

• Time to Harvest: 100-140 days
• Harvesting Tips:
  • Pick when stems become tough and woody or when leaves dry out and brown
  • Cut fruit from the vine with 5-10 cm of stem attached
• Curing & Storage:
  • Cure for a week in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and frost
  • Store in a cool, dry, dark place at 10-16°C
  • Rotate stored pumpkins and discard any showing signs of rot

Grow Queensland Blue Pumpkins for a delicious, long-lasting harvest with a rich flavor perfect for a variety of culinary uses!