Q - How long does it take to grow a 1,314lb pumpkin?

A - It takes one entire summer, from May until October.

Q - What do you feed it?

A - Feeding begins in the Fall of the previous year. You should amend your garden soil with 3"-4" of cow or horse manure. Also any compose such as grass clippings and leaves raked from the yard. A variety of fertilizers should be used throughout the growing season. Fish and seaweed fertilizer are my favorite. Contrary to many old wise tails, Giant pumpkins are not fed milk!

Q - How much room does a Giant Pumpkin plant take?

A - Most competitive growers allow between 500 - 800 square feet per plant. Maintaining it on the garden soil is best, however many growers let the plant spread onto the lawn area if needed. Less competitive growers use less square feet.

Q - Does it take a lot of work?

A - Like any vegetable or flower garden, upkeep is required. Pruning, weeding, watering and pest control are key concerns.

Q - How much water does it take?

A - Every garden is different. It depends on how much sun you get, how well drained your soil is, and your daily weather conditions. Overall it's like any other vegetable or flower garden.

Q - Where can I get a seed to grow a Giant Pumpkin?

A - Almost any grower around will gladly give you a seed. If you don't know a grower then go to the seed exchange board on BigPumpkins.com and kindly ask. You will have to mail them a self addressed stamped bubble pack envelope, and they will send you seeds.

Q - Why are most Giant Pumpkins so imperfect in shape and color?

A - It's all in the genetics of the seeds. Most seeds are cross pollinated to produce offspring with increased weight, and not pretty colors and shapes. After all most growers are competing in giant pumpkin weigh offs, not beauty contests. Some growers do grow for color and shape.

Q - The number one asked question I hear is "How do you move it"?

A - You can purchase a specially designed Pumpkin Lifting blanket. Once you have rolled your pumpkin onto the blanket you then lift the blanket with the pumpkin in it onto a padded pallet, or into your truck. The blanket is equipped with custom made handles all around it for easy lifting. You will need to invite a few friends over to help when this time comes.