Autumn is the peak harvesting time for pumpkins. At first glance
you might think a pumpkin takes up too much room to earn a space
in the domestic vegetable patch. But these crazy growing vines
are happy to grow over a trellis or fence, leaving the ground
free for other crops. Add to this the fact that they can be
stored for months after harvesting and are delicious roasted, in
soups, warm salads, scones and even sweet pies, and you can see
why I am a huge fan. Pumpkins have been cultivated for more than
5,000 years and come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Once
they've taken seed they grow at an amazing speed. Choose a spot
with full sun and well-drained soil that has been improved with
composted manures. Those with limited space will be pleased to
hear that pumpkins grow well up and over a Hills hoist or
arbour, provided the structure is sturdy enough to support the
weight of the fruit. The pumpkin vine is very strong and I have
seen thin stems hold the entire weight of chariot-like pumpkins
in mid-air. Pum