Grow Exotic Pumpkin Trees: Premium Solanum Integrifolium Seeds for Planting

Solanum Integrifolium (Pumpkin on a Stick) Growing Guide

Key Attributes:

• Common Name: Pumpkin Tree, Pumpkin on a Stick, Ornamental Eggplant
• Botanical Name: Solanum integrifolium
• Type: Annual, heirloom, open-pollinated
• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy plant
• Mature Size: 3-4 feet tall
• Days to Maturity: 90-120 days
• Fruit Characteristics: Small, deep orange to red, pumpkin-like fruits
• Uses: Ornamental decoration, dried arrangements, edible when young (used in Asian cuisine)

Planting Instructions:

Seed Preparation:

• No special preparation required.
• Optional: Soak seeds in warm water for 6-12 hours to speed up germination.

Sowing Guidelines:

Indoor Sowing (Recommended for Early Start):

• Start 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
• Sow ¼ inch deep in seed trays with well-draining soil.
• Maintain a soil temperature of 70-85°F (21-29°C) for best germination.
• Provide 12-16 hours of light daily using grow lights or a sunny windowsill.
• Germination occurs in 10-21 days.

Direct Sowing (For Warmer Climates):

• Plant outdoors after the last frost, when soil temperatures reach 60°F (16°C).
• Choose a warm, sunny location with well-draining soil.

Transplanting & Growing Conditions:

Transplanting:

• Move seedlings outdoors when they are 4-6 inches tall and nighttime temperatures stay above 55°F (13°C).
• Harden off by gradually exposing plants to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days.

Spacing & Support:

• Plant Spacing: 18-24 inches apart
• Row Spacing: 24-36 inches apart
• Staking may be needed to support heavy fruit loads.

Care & Maintenance:

• Sunlight: Full sun (6-8 hours daily).
• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering. Water at the base to prevent fungal diseases.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) every 3-4 weeks or use compost for organic growth.
• Mulching: Helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Pruning: Remove lower leaves to improve airflow and fruit production.

Harvesting & Storage:

• When to Harvest:
  • Fruits turn from green to deep orange or red at maturity.
  • Harvest at 90-120 days for the best color and firmness.
• Harvesting Method:
  • Cut the fruit with a few inches of stem attached for drying or display.
• Storage:
  • For decoration, hang fruits in a dry, airy space to cure.
  • If using for cooking, store fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.