The best pumpkin varieties for Russia and how to choose them

Pumpkin varieties amaze the imagination with their diversity. Here you can choose pumpkins of different shapes, colors and sizes. Every gardener will like the taste of the vegetable. By the way
, there are table varieties of pumpkin that are preferred by chefs, and here preference is given to sweetness and juiciness. Also, pumpkin can be grown as a fodder crop. And someone needs a pumpkin for the sake of obtaining seeds. But decorative varieties exist simply for beauty, like flowers.

Further in the article, we will help you understand this variety of varieties. Here, you will learn how to choose pumpkin varieties yourself based on the climatic conditions of the region. Go?

What varieties of pumpkin are there?

There are several varieties of pumpkin that differ in appearance, taste, and at the same time they all require different care.

Large-fruited.
Nutmeg.
Hard bark.

At the same time, pumpkin varieties may differ in purpose:

Table varieties. Such varieties are usually eaten or used to produce pumpkin seeds.
Fodder varieties. They go to feed livestock.
Decorative varieties. Used to decorate the area.

On a note!
Any table, fodder or decorative varieties have their own differences and a knowledgeable person can easily identify them. By the way
, large-fruited varieties are immediately visible.

More differences:

Each pumpkin variety has its own ripening period.
Plants can be long-climbing or bushy.
The colors of the fruit depend on the variety.

Later in the article, we will look at all these varieties of pumpkin in more detail.

Die-hard

The advantage of hard-barked varieties is their long shelf life due to their dense peel. This is also their drawback - there is not much pulp in the fruit, and a significant part of it is occupied by seeds. However, hard-barked fatties are grown throughout Russia. Here are the best varieties of this group.

Gymnosperm

Pumpkin bark is yellow with green spots. Spherical fruits of medium ripening period. The variety is especially valued for its large, nutritious, oily seeds.

Bun

An early variety, round orange fruits reach a maximum of 1.5 kg. It is stored for a long time thanks to the peel.

Smile

Bright orange round fruits. The vegetable grows up to 8, in an optimal climate up to 15 kg. Early ripening, quite sweet, well stored and transported.

Spaghetti

The fruits are greenish at the beginning of ripening, then light yellow. Similar in shape to a melon. The name was given because of the peculiarity of the pulp - during the cooking process it is divided into fibers.

Benincasa, or wax

At the beginning of growth, the pumpkin bark is greenish, during the process it becomes covered with a waxy coating, for which the variety received its second name - waxy. The fruits are very long - up to 2 m, but in cold climates they grow small.

Large pumpkin

Large-fruited pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) can grow to enormous sizes. At the same time, it has a sweet taste and can be stored for a long time. These pumpkin varieties are best suited for growing in the Middle Zone and colder regions. By the way

, the fruits have a thick skin, and due to their large size they take longer to ripen. And yet, they are unpretentious to grow and can easily survive frosts.

Gardeners don’t like very large pumpkin fruits, because you can’t eat them right away, but storing such fruits is extremely inconvenient. Therefore, large-fruited pumpkin is perfect for feeding livestock.

The best varieties of large-fruited pumpkin

Titanium

.
A mid-season pumpkin variety that ripens in 120 days. Pumpkin can grow up to 250 kg. But on private farms the results are worse. To grow such huge pumpkins, you need fertile soil fertilized with humus. The color of the fruit peel is orange with a cream-colored coating. The purpose is universal. The flesh is yellow-orange in color and is sweet and juicy. By the way
, pumpkin bushes are powerful and climbing, so it requires a lot of space.
And another tip
: leave only one first ovary on the stem, otherwise the monsters will be small.

Medical

.
An early ripening variety, ripening in 95 - 100 days. Having fruits flattened on both sides, which have a light green or light gray color with a pronounced pattern. The average fruit weight is up to 5 kg, and in some cases it can reach 8 kg. Pumpkin has juicy and tender flesh with a characteristic pumpkin aroma. High yield - 18 kg per bush. Feature: white coating on the fruit. Because of this feature, the fruits appear slippery. By the way
, the plant tolerates temperature changes well, so it can be grown even in the northern regions of the country. And yet, pumpkin has excellent keeping quality.

Paris red

.
A mid-late variety that has a growing season of 101 - 118 days. It is distinguished from all others by the unusual red color of the peel. Moreover, in some cases, it can weigh up to 20 kg. The pulp is dense, juicy, aromatic and sweet. Although in taste, the variety does not live up to some other varieties. Many people grow it for livestock feed, but choose the sweeter version for themselves. Important
: the variety has excellent keeping quality and transportability.

pay attention to

: Gribovskaya winter, Winter sweet, Altair, Ordinary Merchant's Wife, Candy, Khersonskaya, Volga gray, Lantern, Russian porridge, Azure, Crocus.

Large-fruited varieties

Large-fruited pumpkin varieties are distinguished by their impressive specimen size, ease of care and adaptation to various climatic conditions.

Russian porridge

Russian porridge is a classic representative of large-fruited pumpkin varieties. On long and powerful vines, 3-4 fruits of a rounded-flat shape with slight ribbing are formed. The crust is orange in color with a pinkish tint. This variety is resistant to diseases and pests and is suitable for long-term storage. The fruits are used for making porridge and juices, and are also suitable for drying and drying.

Arina

This variety is distinguished by early ripening and turban-shaped fruits with white or light gray skin. The tender pulp is used in the preparation of dietary and baby food; tasty juices and purees are obtained from them.

Roll

Valok is a mid-season variety characterized by compact bushes and large fruits reaching 8 kilograms in weight. The color of the peel is gray.

Big Moon

The mid-late table variety Big Moon bears fruits weighing up to 40 kilograms with excellent taste. Grows best in sunny, warm climates.

Pumpkin Lantern

Mid-season table pumpkin Lantern is characterized by unpretentiousness, good keeping quality and transportability. The fruits have a bright orange color without a pattern, as well as a flat-round shape.

The dense, juicy and crispy flesh of a rich yellow color is ideal for making porridges and juices.

It can also be used baked due to its excellent taste and many beneficial properties.

butternut squash

Butternut squash (Cucurbita moschata) is the most aromatic and delicious. And this is because its pulp is sugary and fibrous with an excellent taste. The plant is native to Mexico. This means that pumpkin is a heat-loving crop. And it can only be grown in the southern regions of the country. In our country, nutmeg pumpkin is grown exclusively through seedlings, because it has a long growing season.

Pumpkin is popular because of its excellent taste. And this is a subtle nutmeg aroma. And yet, it has a rich flesh color. Due to its ability to be stored for a long time, it is called “winter”. By the way

, the pumpkin pulp becomes more saturated in color during storage. And it is not recommended to store it for more than 6 months.

Butternut squash varieties vary in shape, taste and color. Pumpkins usually have an elongated shape. And these are pear-shaped, oval and cylindrical shapes. A distinctive feature is the five-sided stalk of the fruit. Important

: All representatives of butternut squash have a thin peel that is easily peeled.

The best varieties of butternut squash

Vitamin

.
A late-ripening variety that ripens in 125 - 130 days. In general, at least 5 months must pass before harvest. Thus, in the central zone, the pumpkin simply will not have time to ripen before the autumn cold. Pumpkin fruits are oval in shape. The color of the peel can be dark green, orange-green or dark orange. When cut, you can see the bright orange flesh, which is dense, crisp and sweet. The taste is excellent with the characteristic aroma of butternut squash. By the way
, the skin is thin but dense, so the fruits have good shelf life and transportability. Among the advantages, high yield and increased content of nutrients are noted. Here, carotene alone contains 11.5 mg - 16 mg. And yet, it is worth noting the versatility of application.

Pearl

.
A mid-late variety that ripens within 110 days. The plant is powerful, but the vines are of medium length. The shape of pumpkins is cylindrical, but sometimes more round or oval specimens are also found. The color of the fruit is bright orange, and this tells us about the high carotene content. The pearl has fibrous flesh, dense and juicy, while it also crunches. Their weight can be 6 kg - 8 kg, and they are 50 cm - 70 cm in length. The peel is thin, flexible and plastic. Therefore, we transport it carefully. Among the advantages are
high yield (14 kg - 20 kg per 1 sq. m) and resistance to cold. Also, pumpkin stores well and can easily withstand drought.

Butternut or butternut squash

.
Ripens in 80 - 90 days. The plant can have vines up to 2.5 m. The pumpkin fruits are pear-shaped, and their color is rich yellow-orange. At the same time, the weight of pumpkins is in the range of 1 kg - 2 kg. The pulp is characterized by a loose structure and juiciness. The taste is nutty with a characteristic pumpkin aroma. Advantages
: unusual taste, good shelf life and minimal number of seeds.

Also, these varieties will be good

: Honey princess, Spanish guitar, Candied, Marble, Muscat de Provence, Bylinka, Amber, Hokkaido, Butter crumpet, Prikubanskaya.

General information and classification of pumpkins

Common pumpkin is an annual herbaceous plant with a taprooted branched stem, belonging to the genus and family Cucurbitaceae of the same name. The long-petioled leaves are heart-shaped or five-lobed. Large single pumpkin flowers are unisexual and differ in the structure of the peduncle - in males it is long, and in females it is short.

The color of the flowers is yellow or orange. The flowering period occurs in June-July. Honeybees obtain pollen and nectar from pumpkin flowers. During August and September, pumpkin fruits ripen. They are large, fleshy and smooth, spherical or oval in shape - with a hard crust on top and numerous seeds inside.

The main beneficial substances contained in pumpkin pulp are B vitamins, ascorbic acid, carotene, plant fiber, copper, zinc, iron, magnesium and calcium.

Types of pumpkins are classified according to the principle of use. There are three broad categories:

Decorative (or toy). They are planted along the walls and fences of private houses.
Canteens - used for human food.
Feed intended for animal nutrition.

Pumpkin varieties are divided into nutmeg, large-fruited and hard-barked.

Muscat varieties

Characteristic features of nutmeg pumpkin varieties are elongated fruits in the form of a cylinder or pear, a brown or yellowish-dirty shade of the seeds, as well as a pronounced nutmeg aroma. When cut, the stalk resembles a pentagon.

Vitamin

This is a late-ripening melon crop with a growing season lasting up to 130 calendar days. The shape of the fruit is a wide oval. Its weight can reach from 4 to 7 kilograms.

The fruits ripen in late September or early October. Their tender and crispy flesh has a pleasant sweetish taste.

Spanish guitar

This mid-season variety is characterized by an elongated fruit shape, reminiscent of a guitar. The pulp volume is 95%. The taste of the fruit is sweet and tender, reminiscent of apricot.

Marble

Marble pumpkin is a late-ripening variety. It has large fruits, the minimum weight of which is 6 kg. The thin and soft peel has a green or dark gray color with light inclusions. The flesh is deep orange, juicy and sweet. The variety is suitable for cultivation in the southern regions. In cool climates there is a risk of reduced taste properties.

Muscat de Provence

This is a mid-season French variety of butternut squash, bred by Clause Tezier.

Its advantages:

high productivity;
ease of care;
good keeping quality;
hassle-free transportation;
excellent taste properties.

Muscat de Provence pumpkin is successfully cultivated in temperate and warm climates. The orange-brown fruits have a round and slightly flattened shape with pronounced ribbing. When ripe, the tough crust acquires a grayish-green tint. The pulp of the fruit is very dense and sweet, has a bright orange color.

Walnut

Butternut squash is also known as butternut squash, which literally means “butternut.” The shape of the fruit is pear-shaped. Its lower part, in which the seeds are concentrated, is noticeably expanded. The rest of the space is occupied by pulp, juicy and sweet. The size of the fruit is small, the average weight of one specimen is one and a half kilograms.

Tsukatnaya

Candied pumpkin is widely used in the confectionery industry. This variety is characterized by medium-late ripening. The fruits weigh on average 5 kg. They have a slightly flattened and wide shape.

Common pumpkin

Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) or hard-skinned pumpkin has a hard skin when ripe. And this is how it differs from other varieties of pumpkin. Although, there are varieties of pumpkin with soft skin. Their flesh is fibrous, dense and juicy with a sweet taste. It is also noteworthy that usually an ordinary pumpkin has long vines, which in some cases reach 7 m. However, the pumpkin can also be of the bush type, where the plant has short vines. And it is them that gardeners prefer, because they are easier to care for and they do not need much space.

By the way

, hard-barked varieties are considered more shelf-stable and transportable, and this is facilitated by the dense peel. Moreover, they are the fastest ripening pumpkins, which is why they are especially popular among Russian gardeners. It is also believed that seeds from hard-bark varieties are the most delicious. And the plants are unpretentious and disease resistant.

The best varieties of hard-bark pumpkin

Amazon

.
An early variety that produces the first harvest in 90 - 100 days. The plant is compact in size, bush type, which does not require much space in the garden. Its fruits are flat and round in shape, and their color is deep orange. Pumpkins weigh on average 1 kg - 2.5 kg, and their number on one bush can be from 7 to 15 pieces. The pulp is juicy and tender, which has a bright yellow color. Value of the variety
: excellent transportability and keeping quality, as well as excellent taste. And yet, pumpkin looks beautiful, and many gardeners note this.

Aport

. A mid-season variety that has a compact bush with short vines. Pumpkins have a flat, round shape and a dark orange skin color. The weight of one fruit can be on average 2.7 kg - 3.5 kg, and if you try, then the result can be up to 4.5 kg. When cut, you can see the orange flesh, which has medium density and juiciness, and at the same time it is also crispy. The taste is excellent with a characteristic pumpkin aroma. The seed nest is of medium size, and it contains medium-sized white seeds.

Freckle

. An early ripening variety. The plant is compact, with short vines and light green medium-sized leaves. The fruits have a flat-round shape. The peel color is green with a yellow pattern. The peel is medium in thickness. The pulp is juicy and tender with a sweetish taste, somewhat reminiscent of a pear. One of the advantages is the possibility of long-term storage. The variety is slightly resistant to powdery mildew.

More varieties worthy of attention

: Golosemyanka, Plyushka, Acorn, Gribovskaya bush 189, Gleisdorfer, Elkerbis, Danae, Spaghetti.

Gymnosperm pumpkin

This group of plants differs from other varieties in that their seeds are not covered with a hard shell. Pumpkin was known back in the 20th century, but it has only begun to gain popularity now. The fruits are not attractive. They are yellow-green in color and have a round shape. The average weight of pumpkins is 3 kg - 7 kg. The peel is thin, but at the same time it is dense and hard. The taste is excellent, but some gardeners believe that the taste of pumpkin only develops after a few weeks. Pumpkin is considered a mid-season crop that ripens within 4 months. Fruits can only be stored for up to 2 months. The purpose is universal.

Important

: This pumpkin is usually planted for its seeds. And yet, gymnospermous pumpkin should be planted away from other varieties, because cross-pollination may occur. And then the seeds will come out with a dense shell.

The best varieties of gymnosperm pumpkin

: Danae, Olga, Miranda, Hamlet, Golosemennaya 14.

High in sugar

If you want to enjoy a tasty and sweet pumpkin, then you need to know which varieties will allow you to get such a harvest. Sweet pumpkin is actively used as food, baked or in the preparation of sweet porridges for children.

This information will help you understand how to plant a pumpkin on a compost heap.

Early ripening variety Kroshka

The variety is early ripening. Harvesting can occur 90-100 days from the formation of the first shoots. The fruits are small in size, weighing 2-3 kg per one.

Their shape is round, slightly flattened, and has a light gray color. The pulp has a sweet taste, sleepy, dense consistency, and bright yellow color. Even with long-term storage, the product retains excellent taste.

Atlas with healthy fruits

A characteristic feature of this variety is the formation of large fruits. The weight of one product is 20-50 kg. Despite its large size, the pumpkin has juicy, dense and sweet yellow-orange flesh.

The surface of the fruit is slightly segmented and smooth. Late ripening variety. Harvesting occurs on days 110-130.

Big Max

Late ripening variety with high yield. It is necessary to grow seedlings in April. Harvesting can occur on the 130th day. The weight of one pumpkin is 40 kg. The pulp is orange in color, juicy and sweet.

You may also be interested in information about fertilizing in open ground.

Yield and tasty variety – Almond pumpkin

This variety is characterized by orange-yellow flesh. The taste is at the highest level. With proper care, the plant allows you to get a high yield. The weight of one pumpkin reaches 4-7 kg. Harvesting can occur on day 115-120. Retains its appearance and taste for a long time.

Description and planting of the Volga gray variety

The variety is characterized by early ripening. With proper care you can get a high yield. The pumpkin has a light gray color and a slight greenish tint. The shape of the fruit is slightly flattened. The pulp is egg-yellow in color, tastes sweet, juicy and has a dense consistency.

The plant has strong immunity to diseases such as white rot. For a long time it retains its taste and presentation.

Varieties for the Moscow region

Not all varieties of pumpkin can be successfully grown in central Russia. There are special zoned varieties that do well in the central regions of the country.

Popular varieties

Chit

.
The variety has a growing season of 120 - 130 days and is considered medium-late. The plant is powerful, where the main stem can be up to 3 m. Pumpkins do not live up to the name, and can grow up to 2.5 kg - 4 kg. At the same time, they have a rounded - flattened shape, and the color of the peel is grayish. The pulp is rich - orange, and sometimes yellowish. And it is dense, juicy, and tastes sweet with a characteristic pumpkin aroma. Important point
: the fruits have a dense peel, and therefore they are well stored and transported. And yet, the plant has a stable yield (3 kg - 4 kg per 1 sq. m of plot).

Melon

.
A mid-season variety that ripens 110 days after germination. It has powerful, thick lashes that reach a length of 4 - 5 meters. At the same time, the plant has a powerful root system, and therefore, it can survive drought with dignity. Pumpkins are round and flattened in shape. The peel is strong and thick, which has a light orange color. When cut, you can see the dense and juicy pulp, which is colored orange. The taste is wonderful, sweet with a hint of melon. By the way
, pumpkin contains up to 15% sugar.
Advantages
: melon aroma, keeping quality, transportability.

Pastille champagne

. A variety with a medium ripening period. The plant is medium-sized. The shape of the fruit is elliptical (elongated ellipse). The color is pink, while the fruit has white spots. The weight of pumpkins can be from 2 kg to 3 kg. The peel is dense, but not thick. It is this that contributes to good keeping quality and portability. The yield is average - 3 - 4 pumpkins are harvested from one bush.

Pay attention to these varieties

: Sweet pie, Zorka, Almond, Candy, Marble, Winter dining room.

Best varieties by region

The practical experience of gardeners says that the best results for growing pumpkin in Russia are produced by domestic varieties.

The following varieties are considered the best for the Moscow region:

"Healing." Belonging to early varieties (the period from planting to ripening lasts 94 days), pumpkin exhibits resistance to cold and drought. The pleasant-tasting fruits can gain weight up to 3 kg and can be stored for up to 6 months.
"Therapeutic." This is an early ripening variety (ripening period 90 days). The fruits weigh up to 5 kg. This variety is characterized by juiciness, excellent taste and aroma.

Also for the Moscow region and central Russia, breeders recommend growing pumpkin “Sweet Pie”, “Candied Fruit”, “Premiere”, “Gribovskaya Kustovaya 189”, “Dachnaya”.

The best options for Siberia and the Urals:

"Smile". Fruit ripening is observed 3 months after planting. The plant belongs to the bush variety and provides high yields.
"Freckle". Shows resistance to temperature changes. The fruits can weigh up to 3 kg, their sweet pulp resembles the taste of melon.
"Russian". This frost-resistant variety was bred specifically for cultivation in Siberia. It is characterized by high immunity to disease and good productivity. The fruits taste like melon.

For the Leningrad region, experts advise choosing the varieties “Bush Orange”, “Kustovaya” and “Pricornevaya” for planting. They are characterized by high yield, early ripening, good preservation and excellent taste.

Varieties for Siberia and the Urals

Pumpkin varieties for regions with difficult climates are usually selected with early ripening periods. And most often, their cultivation occurs through seedlings. Although pumpkin is considered a heat-loving plant, there are still varieties that thrive in Siberia and the Urals. These varieties of pumpkin usually tolerate all the vagaries of the weather well, such as temperature changes, frosts and droughts.

note

that the Lechebnaya and Zhemchuzhina varieties have already been mentioned, and they are suitable for these regions. And if they are suitable for Siberia, then they will be suitable for the Central regions. Next, we will consider more varieties that can be grown in Siberia and the Urals.

The best varieties

Smile

.
An early ripening variety that ripens in 85 days. The plant has a compact bush with vines no more than 1 meter. On average, 4 - 5 pumpkins are removed from one bush, which weigh 0.7 kg - 1.2 kg. Pumpkins are orange in color with thick and rough skin. By the way
, it is the thick peel that contributes to long storage and good transportability.
The pulp of the fruit is medium juicy, and its color is orange. The taste is excellent with a characteristic melon aroma. Among the advantages
are the possibility of growing throughout the Russian Federation and good keeping quality.

Russian

.
A variety with an early ripening period, which is 90 - 100 days. The bush is quite compact, which has medium-long vines, and its leaves are light green and medium in size. The shape of the fruit is turban-shaped. The color of the peel is orange, and it is smooth and glossy, but also fragile. The pulp is loose and low-juicy with a small amount of fiber. The taste has a sweetish aftertaste and a characteristic pumpkin aroma. Advantages of pumpkin
: universal use, the ability to grow throughout the country, good shelf life.

Also, such varieties can be grown in Siberia and the Urals

, like Vitamin, Candy, Marble, Almond, Winter Canteen.

Hybrid varieties

Hybrid types of pumpkin are famous for their excellent taste, ease of cultivation, and resistance to various adverse influences. You need to familiarize yourself with the most popular names.

Hazelnut F1

A unique hybrid variety with a pronounced nutty taste. Easily tolerates drought and cold, ripens within a hundred-day period. This pumpkin has large and lush leaves. The thick peel has a reddish-orange color. The aromatic and tasty pulp is used to make pies, puddings and casseroles.

Matilda F1

This is a hybrid table variety of Dutch selection with an average ripening period. Matilda is characterized by strong stems and heart-shaped leaves.

Large fruits have a bottle shape that expands at the bottom. The color when ripe can be mustard yellow or orange.

The oily pulp is also orange in color. One of the features of this hybrid is the minimal amount or absolute absence of seeds.

Rosy plump F1

A strong and climbing hybrid with fruits of a beautiful pink shade. Ripening time is average, yield is high. Pumpkin has a sweet and juicy taste, allowing it to be eaten even raw. It is also used in the preparation of purees, soups, porridges and pie fillings.

Butter donut F1

This hybrid variety is characterized by record-breaking sweet pulp, which is widely used in cooking. The fruits ripen late, reaching their maximum sugar concentration by December.

Hybrid varieties

Hybrid varieties are currently very popular among gardeners. And this is because hybrids have higher yields and are more resistant to various diseases. For those who don't know

: to obtain a hybrid, different varieties of pumpkin are used, which are crossed with each other, and as a result we get a hybrid variety.
By the way
, the disadvantage of hybrids is that you cannot get your own seeds from them. This means that seeds will need to be purchased every year.

The best pumpkin hybrids

Rosy plump F1

. Ripens in 100 days. The plant is powerful and climbing. Pumpkins grow up to 6 kg - 8 kg, and are orange in color with a pink tint. The pumpkin pulp is very juicy and sweet. That is why pumpkin is recommended for baking, for making porridges, soups and purees. The advantages include excellent keeping quality, stable and high yield.

Matilda F1

.
Mid-early hybrid. The bush is powerful with long lashes that can be up to 5 meters in length. The fruits have a light yellow peel, and their shape can be pear-shaped or cylindrical. The pulp is dense and has a delicate taste with a watermelon flavor. Its color is orange. From one bush, 8 - 10 pumpkins are collected, which can weigh from 2 kg to 4 kg. But, if you make an effort and leave fewer ovaries on the plant, then you can get 5 kg of fruit. The advantages here
: high yield and small seed chamber.

Hazelnut F1

.
A mid-season hybrid that ripens in 100 days. The plant is powerful and climbing; here the lashes are 4 - 5 meters long. The weight of one fruit can be 1 kg - 1.5 kg, and in some cases it can be 2 kg. The shape of the fruit is nut-like (round). The peel has a bright orange color, and it is thick and dense. Therefore, pumpkin is perfectly stored even in an apartment. The taste is excellent with notes of sweetness and a slight nutty aroma. Advantages
: ability to be stored for a long time, unpretentiousness and versatility in use.

For the northwest

If you are going to grow pumpkin in the north-west of Russia, then you should choose the following varieties of pumpkin:

Bush orange. Early ripening variety. The fruits are spherical and have a bright orange color. The weight of the pumpkin reaches 4-5 kg. The pulp is yellow in color and contains a large amount of sugars and dry matter. The main advantage of this variety remains high productivity and early ripening.
In the conditions of the north-west, an excellent option would be to use varieties such as Troyanda and Prikornevaya. They have a fast ripening period and high yield. The fruits are all 4.5 - 7 kg. The core has excellent taste and is presented in an orange-yellow color scheme. The varieties have strong immunity to common diseases. The fruits retain their taste and presentation over a long period of storage.
Bush. This variety is in great demand among gardeners and gardeners. Characterized by small fruits. Ripening period is early. The plant develops in the form of a bush. Fruit weight is 1.5-2 kg, yellow-green in color. The pulp is yellow, juicy and tasty.

Sweet varieties

In general, there are a huge number of pumpkin varieties, but only 35 varieties can be considered truly sweet. They contain a sufficient amount of sugars and therefore have a sugary pulp. Typically, sweet fruits are obtained in the southern regions, and proper care is also of great importance.

The best sweet varieties

Winter sweet

.
A late-ripening variety that ripens within 120 - 130 days. Bush with thick vines of medium length. The fruits reach a weight of 7 kg - 12 kg, and they have a dark gray peel with a whitish pattern. And it is thin, but dense, as if leathery. The shape is flat and round. When cut, you can observe dense, juicy, sweet and crispy flesh, which is colored yellow-orange. The advantages are
: drought resistance, excellent keeping quality, resistance to anthracnose and powdery mildew.

Sweet tooth

. Early ripening variety. The plant is powerful and climbing. Pumpkins have an average weight of 1.5 kg - 6.1 kg, and they are dark green with faint ribbing. The fruits are round in shape with orange flesh. And its consistency is dense, starchy, low-juicy and crispy. The variety is considered drought-resistant, transportable and long-storing.

Gray Volga

. Mid-season variety ripens in 110 - 120 days. The plant has medium-sized vines. The fruits are round - flattened, and they are colored gray. The peel is dense and smooth, which also becomes segmented as the pumpkin grows. The pulp is yellow, and when fully ripe it turns orange, while the density and sweetness are average. The variety has excellent yield: on average, one fruit weighs 9 kg - 10 kg, and there are 2 - 3 of them on 1 bush. And it turns out up to 15 kg per 1 sq. m plot.

Also, they have sugary pulp

: Honey (honey fairy tale (princess), honey beauty, honey dessert), Sweetie, Parisian gold,

Hardbark pumpkin

The formation of a thick and strong crust is the main characteristic of hard-rind pumpkin varieties. Other features include early ripening, excellent seed taste and minimal sugar content in the fruit.

Acorn

Acorn, or acorn squash, is compact in size. The color of its thick, textured peel can vary from orange to dark green. Inside the vegetable there is yellow-orange pulp with a pronounced sweet taste.

Aport

The mid-season Aport pumpkin has a traditional orange skin without a pattern; underneath it lies juicy and crispy yellow flesh. The taste of the fruit is very pleasant, sweetish with a creamy aftertaste.

Gymnosperm

The fruits of this mid-season variety are spherical or pear-shaped. They are characterized by a green color with a contrasting yellow mesh. The main feature is very large and fleshy seeds with a high content of nutritious oil and without a shell.

Spaghetti

Due to the external resemblance of the pulp to the famous pasta, this early-ripening variety acquired its name. As for the shape of the fruit itself, it has a pale yellow color and is similar in shape to a melon. The size of the vegetable is compact, the average weight is about a kilogram.

Freckle

Freckle is an early-ripening variety of table pumpkin weighing from 500 g to 3 kg. The green color of the fruit is diluted with yellow splashes. The taste of the pulp is reminiscent of pear with sweetness and tenderness.

Acorn squash

Acorn squash gets its name from its distinct resemblance to an acorn. This is an early ripening table variety with compact fruits. The color of the hard skin is orange, orange-green, and also dark green.

Green pumpkin

Green pumpkin can have smooth or ribbed, dense skin. Its flesh, like most other varieties, is orange. Porridges, purees and pie fillings are prepared from this vegetable. The most famous varieties of green pumpkin are the Frog Princess, Acorn, Harlequin and Freckle.

Gribovskaya 189

This oldest and widely known variety in Russia is an early ripening variety. Characterized by bush growth.

The fruits have an oblong ovoid shape. The peel can be either smooth or ribbed.

As the fruit ripens, the color changes from green to light orange. Often, ripe pumpkins have distinctive mottled green stripes.

Altai

The Altai pumpkin variety has been known since the mid-50s of the 20th century. Resistant to low air temperatures. The fruits have a short cylindrical oval shape with a smooth or ribbed surface. The woody, hard crust is deep yellow or light orange in color with green stripes. Hidden underneath is lemon or yellow pulp.

Gymnosperm

The fruits of the gymnosperm pumpkin are round, cylindrical or pear-shaped. The color of the thick and strong, slightly ribbed peel is yellow, orange or dark green. Instead of a dense crust, the seeds have a thin edible film rich in fiber.

Bun

This is an early ripening table variety with compact fruits weighing up to 1.5 kilograms. Flat-round fruits are formed on the stem in large quantities. The juicy yellow pulp is rich in carotene and B vitamins.

Decorative pumpkin varieties

There are varieties of pumpkin that are not eaten, but are used for beauty in a summer cottage. These plants most often have an unusual appearance, which can be of different shapes and colors. And this attracts owners of summer cottages.

The best decorative varieties of pumpkin

Little Red Riding Hood

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It is considered an early ripening crop and belongs to the turban family. The plant has a peculiarity - long tendrils, which serve to attach the lashes to the supports. The pumpkins here look like a mushroom with a red cap that resembles a turban. You can get 10 - 20 of these mushrooms from one bush, and their weight can be 2 kg - 5 kg. The bottom of the pumpkin is light, cream-colored. The pulp is orange-yellow and has a sweet taste. By the way
, unlike other bitter fellows, it can be eaten, but only young fruits. The advantages include cold resistance, drought resistance and unpretentiousness.

Pear

. The plant has lashes up to 6 meters long. The fruits come in different shapes and colors. In shape they are: pear-shaped, round, bottle-shaped, oval and star-shaped. Their color can be: orange, red, cream, green, striped, spotted and even white. The number of fruits can be from 20 to 30 fruits. They grow pears only for beauty. The fruits are not edible. The plant is easy to care for and can be grown in all regions.

More varieties of decorative pumpkin

: Chayote, Lagenaria, Ficephalia, Kruknek, Corona, Warty.

Good luck to you!

The best large-fruited varieties

The main advantage of this group is its size. The fruits grow large, and many of them are quite sweet.

Big Moon

Yellow fruits with segmented skin can reach 40 and sometimes 90 kg - real giants. The pulp is dense, quite juicy, and the taste characteristics are good.

Winter sweet

Winter sweet pumpkin in good growing conditions reaches 6 kg. Late ripening. The peel is dark gray, ribbed. The pulp is juicy, you can prepare drinks. Suitable for baby food, pleasant taste.

Volga gray

Volga gray pumpkin grows up to 8 kg. The fruits are mid-ripening, round, the pulp is of medium sugar content.

Merchant's wife

Large-fruited yellow pumpkin, ripening up to 15 kg or more. The mid-early ripening period makes it possible to grow merchant's wife in different regions.

Russian porridge

6-7 kg is the average weight of these round fatties. The bark is orange, pinkish. One of the best varieties for stewing, baking and other culinary experiments.

Varieties of hard-bark pumpkin

In hard-skinned pumpkin varieties, the skin becomes woody and hard during ripening. All types of pumpkin that belong to this group ripen early. The harvest can be harvested at the end of August. The fruits are not too large, but the cream-colored seeds are large and have an excellent taste.

Acorn squash

Acorn squash is often called the Acorn variety because the small fruits resemble acorns in appearance. The Acorn variety is for table use, with early fruit ripening.

The pulp is light yellow, juicy, soft, with a pleasant aroma. The skin can be of different colors: dark green, orange, orange-green.

Bun

The early ripening pumpkin variety Plyushka belongs to the table group. Fruit ripening occurs on the 87th day. The lashes are short, up to 1 meter in length. Many flat-rounded fruits with small white stripes are formed on the stem, weighing about 1.5 kg.

The color of the juicy pulp is yellow, with a high content of vitamins and carotene. The abundant harvest can be stored for a long time and does not spoil.

Gymnosperm

Among the numerous varieties of hard-bark pumpkin, the gymnosperm type occupies special attention; the description indicates many positive qualities. A distinctive feature is that the seeds are not covered with a dense peel, but with a thin film. This film contains a lot of fiber.

The fruits can be round, pear-shaped or cylindrical with slight ribbing. The color may be orange, dark green or yellow. All varieties are characterized by early fruit ripening. After only 3.5 months you can harvest.

Green pumpkin

In addition to yellow and orange shades, there are also green pumpkin varieties. The most popular varieties with green skin include: Tsarevna-Frog, Vesnushka, Acorn, Harlequin, Altair.

The most popular varieties

Despite the fact that many summer residents highlight their favorites on forums, reviews are not reliable due to certain factors. First it concerns the region. Further, the weight of the harvest depends on the care and the variety itself. It happens that even the best variety, praised by many people, if not properly cared for, can lead to a lack of ovaries, flowering and fruit volume.

No. 1 - Miracle Yudo

In 2022, fruits of medium ripeness with a captivating aroma are increasingly gaining popularity. In adulthood, it is recommended to consume the pulp even raw, without worrying about harm to your body. The undeniable usefulness, captivating taste and aroma are preserved both in finished and freshly collected form.

Outwardly - slightly exotic. The pattern on the peel resembles a subtle mesh of a grayish tint on a reddish tint. Weight - from 5 to 11 kg.

Whole vegetables can be stored for up to 6-8 months at temperatures from 5 to 21 degrees Celsius.

No. 2 - Beauty

When choosing an early variety, you should pay close attention to the pumpkin family with the sonorous name “Beauty”. No more than 115 days pass from germination to harvest, and the weight of each vegetable can reach 7-8 kg.

External features are classic, representing a fiery color, round, slightly flattened shape. When cut, the pulp remains soft, sugary and tasty even after collection.

The variety demonstrates itself well in the preparation of all kinds of sweets. Reproducing steamed and oven-baked dishes with added sugar brings the aroma of caramel and cotton candy to desserts.

No. 3 - Vitamin

One of the oldest and most proven varieties of Soviet times remains the achievement of Russian breeders, who registered their creation back in 1952. “Vitamin” pumpkin, as the name suggests, saturates the body with vitamins, minerals, macro- and microelements, and during harvest can reach a hefty volume, reaching more than 7.5 kg of total weight.

The shape can be round or cylindrical. With proper care, the cover can be spotted or striped, made in a bright orange tone with rich green splashes.

There is practically no sugar in the vegetable, but beneficial vitamins and ascorbic acid predominate.

No. 4 - Augustine

Another early-ripening variety remains the work of Russian breeders. We are talking about a variety produced under a female name - “Augustina”. Several advantages predominate in the pulp: elongated shape, light yellow pulp, closer to lemon, slightly elongated shape, close to cylindrical and not much weight - from 3 to 5 kg.

The peel is not orange like most pumpkins, but green, with small highlights of yellow or red.

#5 – Guitar

For lovers of non-standard shapes, you can use Guitar muscat pumpkins to decorate your site. It is not difficult to germinate them, as they do not require careful care and abundant watering. Vegetables are watered when dry.

Harvesting occurs after the product has gained sufficient weight. Today, the best standard remains a weight in the range of 2.7-4.9 kg. If you want to get a sweeter pulp, the vegetable can be removed from the open garden much earlier, when the weight exceeds 1.9 kg.

The ripe product has pastel (vanilla) pulp and a sweet taste.

No. 6 - Pearl

In sixth place has remained for many years late, characterized by a minimal number of seeds and dense pulp.

The plant is not a branched plant and easily gets along in the garden with other vegetables, herbs and fruits. For 1 sq. m. the weight of the vegetable can exceed more than 8 kg. The color is rich red, with a predominant bright pattern.

The shape of the fruit is elongated, cylindrical.

No. 7 – Tsukatnaya

An improved variety with immunity from many diseases and pests, can now withstand weather fluctuations. A universal variety of nutmeg pumpkin, suitable for germination in any soil. Moderate watering and fertilization in the form of horse manure will allow you to get an excellent product as you gain weight.

Weight between 5 and 8 kg is considered mature and ready for consumption.

No. 8 - Butternut

The American variety, produced by a well-known company, translated into Russian, is characterized as “nut butter.” The reason for this name is explained quite simply. The shape of peanuts, the aroma and taste of the nut may not appeal to everyone, but only to lovers of gourmet dishes.

Butternut squashes are not big. Their weight can reach no more and no less - 3.5 kg.

Today there are several varieties of American selection. Some are early, others are mid-ripening, representing the germination of several fruits at once on one powerful trunk.

The color scheme is light red, similar to the shade of the sky during sunrise. The pulp is bright and can vary from red to red.

The aroma is melon with nutty notes. The pulp is dense but tender.

Analogue - “Peanut butter”.

No. 9 – French traditions

This variety has been popular in France for many years. This variety was brought to Russia not so long ago. And although only a little time has passed, foreign seeds have already managed to germinate many times in Central Russia, Central and even North-Western.

No. 10 - Provencal nutmeg

A pumpkin called “Muscat of Provence” was brought to our latitudes from the southern coast of France more than 5 years ago. However, even in such a short period of time it was able to take root in our open spaces.

The surface color of the vegetable is light yellow, less often mustard.

When cut, the flesh is bright orange, reaching a weight of 7 to 8.7 kg.

Sugar content is low. The ideal taste is achieved through the aroma of nutmeg. The consistency is quite thick.

No. 11 - Minimuscat

Fans of small varieties with an attractive taste and aroma should take a close look at the smaller copy of Muscat of Provence. The difference between two similar types remains weight. If the original weighs more than 5 kg, then the miniature weighs no more than 3.5 kg.

#12 – Honey pie

The second analogue of “Muscat of Provence” is a Russian-made variety. Weight - ranges from 4 to 6 kg. The honey taste and aroma of propolis gave the well-known nutmeg an additional “piquant” note. The zest became the inspiration for breeders who gave the pumpkin the name “Honey Pie”.

No. 13 - Japanese selection or exotic varieties

The best varieties for open ground may be pumpkins developed by Japanese breeders. Exotic varieties, distinguished by their unusual appearance and shape, will appeal not only to gardeners, but also to neighbors who come to visit their dacha. The bright appearance and unusual shape will add landscape to even the simplest area.

The 2022 list includes varieties such as: Kogiku, Hidemi, Yokohama, Chiriman.

Mr. Summer Resident recommends: pumpkin is a healthy product

Pumpkin pulp is enriched with numerous substances beneficial to the human body: proteins, fiber, pectins and vitamins C.

It has a beneficial effect on the condition of the intestines, strengthens the cardiovascular system, and is used to treat iron deficiency anemia and liver diseases. Most representatives are low-calorie, despite their sweetness, and are used in dietary nutrition. Even the seeds are eaten after careful drying.

Features of planting and growing

Butternut squash (varieties, photos and descriptions will help you choose the right type for cultivation) loves rich, warm and fertile soil, with the addition of compost. To grow a good crop, you should maintain even moisture and add more organic matter during the growing period.

Butternut squash takes a long time to grow to full maturity, so it should be planted early in order to have time to collect ripe fruits before the first frost. Being a heat-loving species, pumpkin prefers hot weather with moderate watering.

Muscat varieties are propagated mainly by seedlings through planting seeds. You can prepare the seeds yourself or purchase them at the store.

Soil and planting algorithm

The optimal time to start sowing seeds: mid-April - early May. Seeds are planted in individual containers to minimize damage to the root system during replanting. Pots with a diameter of at least 10 cm are suitable for this. 1-2 seeds are planted in each to a depth of no more than 1 cm.

To avoid diseases of the planting material, watering is carried out only with water at room temperature. A universal soil mixture or soil disinfected by calcination from a garden plot is suitable as soil.

Place the future seedlings in a well-lit place.

Pumpkin will produce a good harvest if grown in fertile, well-draining soil rich in organic matter and with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. The crop should be planted in full sun and ensure sufficient soil moisture due to its shallow root system. After a month of cultivation, the seedlings are ready for transplanting into open ground conditions.

After replanting, during the first few days, seedlings should be protected from direct sunlight with film or special covering material. Otherwise, the young plant may get sunburn. For southern regions, where there is no threat of spring frosts, the method of directly planting seeds in open ground is suitable.

When sowing directly, seeds should be sown after the last frost, when the soil has warmed up to at least +15 ° C, 1-2 seeds at a depth of 2-3 cm at a distance of at least 30 cm from each other.
Seeds sown outdoors require slightly moist soil to germinate, but overwatering should be avoided.
Seeds germinate in 5–10 days depending on soil temperature.

Before sowing, planting material is disinfected and then soaked in water. Further care is identical to caring for seedlings.

Care

Butternut squash does not have any special care methods. Regular watering, loosening the soil, weeding and fertilizing is quite enough to get a good harvest.

Primary attention should be paid to weeding and loosening the soil. Young plants spend a lot of energy on growth, so the growth of weeds inhibits the vegetation of the bush and aeration of the root system. The procedure can be omitted after the bushes have grown profusely.

During the growing season, the plant requires watering. Its frequency decreases as the bush grows. Particular attention should be paid to watering during flowering and ovary formation. Sprinkling of leaves is not recommended; water should be applied directly under the root. To make watering easier, shallow grooves can be formed around the plant.

Pumpkin fertilizers are needed twice per season. The first feeding is applied before flowering, and the second during the formation of the ovaries. Potassium fertilizers have a good effect on pumpkin development. Their absence can be replaced with an ash solution. To do this, dilute 2 tbsp. l. ash per 1 bucket of water.

The plant needs bush shaping. You can limit the growth of lashes by pinching the leading stem, which is at least 1.2 m long. By this moment, it should have 3 side shoots. The flowers are removed from each, leaving only 2. Over time, the ovaries will become larger. At this time, it is necessary to place boards or slate under the ovaries so that future vegetables do not touch the surface of the ground.

Diseases and pests

Butternut squash (varieties, photos of them and a description of their features will allow you to determine the best option for growing on your site) is vulnerable to some diseases:

Shoots and fruits covered with brown spots are a sign of anthracnose. If left untreated, the plant will dry out. You can cope with the disease with the help of Bordeaux mixture.
Dark green spots on the leaves are the first symptom of bacteriosis. As the disease progresses, the leaves dry out and the fruits become deformed. The affected areas are cut off and the plant is treated with copper sulfate.
Stopping growth is a symptom of root rot. The roots crack, the fruits stop growing, the leaves turn yellow and fall off. Root rot is treated with Fundazol and Previkur. In the absence of commercial preparations, they are replaced with wood ash.

Among the insect pests that most often infect pumpkin beds are spider mites, melon aphids or slugs. To prevent infection by mites and aphids, plantings are treated with a decoction of onion peels. You can get rid of slugs by sprinkling plants with wood ash or spraying them with garlic infusion.

To prevent any damage, it is necessary to follow the rules of agricultural technology:

observe moderation of watering;
follow the rules of crop rotation;
plant plants according to the recommended scheme;
regularly weed;
carry out systematic inspection for pests;
Do not place crops nearby that are attacked by similar diseases.

Wintering

The crop is planted as an annual crop, growing during one growing season. At the end of fruiting, the bushes are removed from the soil. The remaining green parts of plants can be used as a base for humus.

Harvesting

Harvesting begins when the fruits reach full maturity. This moment is determined by the peel. It becomes dense, shiny, and the stalk begins to dry out. It is important to collect the fruits before the first frost. Affected by cold, they are stored worse and are more likely to rot. In this case, you can collect unripe vegetables and place them in a warm place for further ripening.

Harvesting of ripe fruits should be carried out according to the following rules:

cut the fruits with a knife or pruning shears, leaving a small piece of stem near the pumpkin;
harvest in dry weather;
do not damage the peel during collection and transportation.

Storage

The collected pumpkin is laid out in one layer in a dry room with a temperature of +10-15˚С. When stored this way, the fruit will last for months. Freezing of fruits is unacceptable, as this leads to rapid spread of rot.

Muscat varieties can be cut into cubes or pureed in a blender for later freezing. The vegetable crop is suitable for preparing juices and sauces for further storage.

Varieties with large fruits

Large-fruited pumpkin varieties are considered large. The fruit pulp is sweet, some of them contain up to 15% sugar. The varieties tolerate low air temperatures well. The seeds can be cream, white or brown. The peduncle has a rounded-cylindrical shape, the stem is without grooves, and the leaves are pentagonal.

Popular types of large-fruited pumpkins for open ground: Titan, Smile, Crocus, Medicinal, Kupchikha, Azure. The description will allow you to choose the most suitable variety.

The mid-season variety Kupchikha ripens after 112 days. The plant forms long, powerful vines. The average weight of round fruits is 8 kg, but can reach 20 kg, the skin is orange-yellow. The pulp is orange, dense, juicy and sweet.

The variety is valued for its high yield, good shelf life and transportability, and disease resistance. The pulp is used to prepare porridges, soups, and juices.

Pumpkin Lantern

Pumpkin variety Lantern produces large fruits up to 7 kg after 100 days, therefore it belongs to the mid-season group of plants intended for table use. The pulp is orange, juicy and crispy. Harvested vegetables are stored for a long time, retaining all their nutritional components and juiciness.

The plant's vines are long, so pinching is required. Covering the stems with soil allows the plant to grow additional roots and receive more nutrition needed for development.

Russian porridge

Pumpkin of the Russian porridge variety for table use is characterized by mid-ripening boundaries. It takes 115 days from the emergence of seedlings to the ripening of large fruits. The stem is powerful, the leaves are elongated, up to 3–4 flat-round fruits are formed. The surface is orange with a pinkish tint and light ribbing.