Cucurbita pepo Buzz F1 PMT – Compact, dark orange cutting pumpkin

The Cucurbita pepo Buzz F1 PMT is a high-quality F1 hybrid pumpkin recommended as an ideal replacement for the Mars F1 variety. This variety combines a compact plant structure, uniformly round fruits, and excellent resistance to powdery mildew (PMT), making it a reliable choice for both home gardeners and commercial growers. Buzz F1 PMT is particularly suitable for consumption, for example, in pumpkin soup, and also offers a beautiful, dark orange, decorative appearance.

Striking fruits: uniform and compact

Buzz F1 PMT fruits are round, medium-sized slicing pumpkins with an average weight of 2–3 kg. The dark orange skin remains bright and uniform throughout the growing season, while the sturdy stem is well-proportioned to the fruit, facilitating transport and handling. The compact size and uniform shape make the fruits suitable for both market sales and home cooking.

The fruits are similar to those of Mars F1, making this variety a trusted replacement for growers already experienced with the old variety but looking for improved resistance and uniformity.

Compact growth and short tendrils

The Buzz F1 PMT plant grows compactly and develops relatively short tendrils, making it easier to cultivate in smaller gardens or confined plots. This makes the variety ideal for intensive cultivation, greenhouses, or vegetable beds where space must be used efficiently.

Despite its compact growth, the plant produces multiple healthy fruits per plant, which contributes to a high yield and efficient cultivation.

Cultivation and sowing method

Buzz F1 PMT thrives best in warm, well-drained soil. For optimal development and uniform fruit, the variety can be grown using:

• Pre-cultivation from the end of April, followed by planting out after the last night frost

• Sow directly in the open ground from the beginning of May, as soon as the soil has warmed up sufficiently.

The optimal germination temperature is between 24–30°C. Sow the seeds pointed end down or flat in the ground, ensuring the soil is not too wet to prevent rot. After germination, the young plants should be placed in a bright, cooler location to encourage strong, compact growth.

The maturation time is 90–95 days, making Buzz F1 PMT a mid-early variety suitable for an early to mid-autumn harvest.

Diseases and pests

Although this F1 hybrid variety is robust thanks to its PMT resistance to powdery mildew, the common pests and diseases of C. pepo can still occur. Potential threats include:

• Snails

• Birds

• Mice

• Aphids

• Mildew

• Viruses

Good air circulation, ample planting distance and careful water management will help minimise the risk of damage.

Uses and applications

Cucurbita pepo Buzz F1 PMT is versatile in use:

• Culinary: ideal for pumpkin soup, stews, roasted and stuffed dishes

• Decorative: the dark orange colour makes it also suitable for autumn and Halloween arrangements

• Commercial: Uniform, medium-sized fruits are excellent for sale at markets or farm shops

The combination of compact growth, firm fruits and high uniformity makes Buzz F1 PMT a reliable choice for both home gardeners and professional growers who value quality and yield.