Cucurbita pepo Cougar F1 – Compact, bright orange cutting pumpkin with PMT resistance

Cucurbita pepo Cougar F1 is a high-quality, powdery mildew-resistant (PMT) pumpkin variety that stands out for its compact growth, short vines, and harmoniously shaped fruits. This variety is ideal for gardeners who value reliable harvests, uniformity, and aesthetic quality. Cougar F1 produces round to slightly round fruits weighing 5–7 kg, with a bright orange color and light ribbing, making them suitable for both ornamental and culinary use.

Striking fruits: bright orange and harmonious

Cougar F1 produces round, uniform, robust, and visually attractive fruits weighing 5–7 kg. The fruits have a light ribbed texture, enhancing their natural appearance, while the dark green stem completes the overall look. This makes Cougar F1 ideal for:

• Decorative applications, such as autumn and Halloween arrangements

• Culinary uses, such as pumpkin soup or stews

• Market harvest and sales, thanks to uniform fruits of consistent size

The combination of compact growth, short tendrils and PMT resistance makes Cougar F1 particularly suitable for gardens with limited space and gardeners who want an easy harvest and maintenance.

Growth form and plant behaviour

Cougar F1 grows compactly with short tendrils, making the variety easy to manage. This compact growth pattern is ideal for:

• Small gardens and hobby plots

• High-yield cultivation on limited surfaces

• Pre-grown plants and direct sowing

The short tendrils ensure better air circulation around the plants, reducing the risk of fungal diseases and other common pests. For optimal growth, it's recommended to allocate 1–2 square meters per plant.

Cultivation and sowing method

Cougar F1 thrives in warm, well-drained soil with ample sunlight. It can be cultivated by seeding or direct sowing.

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

• Sow directly from early May, as soon as the soil has warmed up sufficiently

The optimal germination temperature is between 24–30°C. Sow the seeds with the pointed end down or flat and keep the soil slightly moist. After germination, the young plants should be placed in a brighter, cooler location to promote healthy and strong growth.

The ripening time is approximately 85 days, making Cougar F1 an early harvest, ideal for autumn decoration and culinary applications.

Diseases and pests

Cougar F1 is powdery mildew resistant (PMT), but can still be affected by other common pests and diseases of Cucurbita pepo. Potential threats include:

• Snails

• Birds

• Mice

• Aphids

• Viruses

Sufficient planting distance, good air circulation and regular water management will keep Cougar F1 healthy and productive.

Uses and applications

Thanks to its bright orange, uniform fruits and compact growth, Cougar F1 is versatile:

• Culinary applications: ideal for pumpkin soup, stews or small portions

• Decorative applications: uniform and robust, perfect for autumn and Halloween decorations

• Hobby and commercial cultivation: easy to harvest and suitable for smaller plots

Cougar F1 combines compact growth, early harvest, and mildew resistance, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who value both ornamental value and productivity.