5 Things You May Not Know About Pumpkins

When you are walking in the market and seeing piles of pumpkins, what’s the first thing that comes to your mind? Is it the horror or funny Halloween symbols, the amazingly delicious pies, or perhaps the image of pumpkins growing on the farm? Pumpkins are no doubt an important part of people’s lives, and in this article we would like to share some fun facts about these charming plants.

Pumpkins Walked Through Thousands of Years

The origins of pumpkins can be traced back to North America about 9000 years ago, and the oldest pumpkin seeds have been found in Mexico. Native Americans used pumpkins as a staple food, roasting strips of pumpkin and using the seeds as a snack. As it lasts to present days, the main purpose of planting pumpkins may be different, however, pumpkins have truly become an integral part of American culture, especially during the fall season.

The Key Food that Helps Enhance Health

Pumpkins contain various nutrients that benefit a person's health. The main nutritional value comes from vitamins A and C, which are crucial for a person's health. They also provide natural fiber for a healthy digestive system and contain antioxidants that can help slow the aging process! Isn’t it a wonderful food you should have in your backyard vegie garden? 

So Many Types of Pumpkins!

In fact, there are many types of pumpkins, over 150 different varieties of pumpkins in the world, each planted for different purposes, from daily cooking to Halloween decorations. 

Here are some most common pumpkins you should know them: 

Sugar Pumpkins: When you want to make some pies, or cook soup, this is the chosen one.

Jack-o'-Lantern Pumpkins: The super star on Halloween! The classic choice for carving and decoration.

White Pumpkins: Known for their unique color, adding a decorative touch.

Cinderella Pumpkins: Feature large, deep ribs, and a unique flat shape. Their thick, tender flesh is suited for soups. The name is known from their resemblance to the pumpkin that turns into Cinderella's coach in the Disney movie.

World Records of Pumpkins

The Heaviest: The heaviest pumpkin on record in the U.S. — and the world — was grown in Minnesota last year and weighed 2,749 lbs. Grown by Travis Gienger out of Anoka. 

The Largest: A record circumference of 242 in (20 ft 2 in; 614.7 cm). Most recently in 2022, his 2,560-lb (1,161.2-kg) gourd, dubbed "Maverick", was transformed into an eagle-themed jack o'lantern by carver Mike Rudolph (USA).

Environmental Benefits of Pumpkins

There are several advantages to growing pumpkins for the benefits of the environment. For example, pumpkins have extensive root systems that help improve soil structure. Its flowers attract pollinators like bees and enhance the health of ecosystems. Every part of the pumpkin can be used, from the flesh to the seeds and even the skin, these features make it become a crop with minimal waste. 

Explore the Surprised Gardening Life with Pumpkins

The foundation of a dream garden begins with choosing the plants and flowers that you are most interested in. We hope this share opens the gate to your gardening journey! Now that you know more about the amazing and adorable pumpkins, it's time to move on the exciting adventure of gardening!