Look for help when it’s time to bring these beauties in from the garden. “Big Max” lives up to his name by producing large pumpkins, reliably in the 20 kg (44 lbs) range. When growing conditions are ideal, this pumpkin will produce fruit that weigh more than 45 kg (100 lbs) measuring in at 175 cm (70″) in diameter. Fruit tends to have a “flattened” appearance. The skin is pinkish orange and very thick. ‘Big Max’ is usually listed as C. maxima rather than C. pepo.

How to Grow

Pumpkin is a hot weather crop. They need full sun and deep, rich, well drained, organic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Before planting, work in lots of compost. Sow seed directly outdoors from late May through early June 2.5 cm (1″) deep in hills 2.4 m (8′) apart with 4-6 seeds per hill. After germination, thin to 3 plants per hill. Seed can be started indoors 3 weeks before the plant out date. Pumpkins do not transplant well–use paper or fibre pots that can be set directly in the soil. For competition sized pumpkins, allow only two pumpkins per plant to mature. Protect mature pumpkins from frost and cold temperatures.