Cucurbita pepo Racer Plus F1 PMT – Improved Halloween pumpkin with powdery mildew tolerance

Cucurbita pepo Racer Plus F1 PMT is an improved variety within the well-known Racer type, popular worldwide as a Halloween pumpkin. This variety is distinguished by its powdery mildew tolerance (PMT) and compact growth habit, which allows the plants to remain healthy longer and the fruits to be more beautifully shaped. Racer Plus F1 PMT combines ornamental value, reliability, and ease of cultivation, making it an excellent choice for home gardeners, commercial growers, and anyone who values ​​uniform, robust pumpkins.

The ribbed, round fruits are slightly larger than those of the classic Racer F1, weighing 6.5 to 8 kg. This makes them ideal for impressive Halloween decorations, autumn decorations, and creative workshops, while their sturdy stems also ensure a long shelf life.

Large, round and ribbed fruits with high ornamental value

Racer Plus F1 PMT produces round, dark orange pumpkins with distinctive ribs and a uniform shape. The larger fruit size compared to Racer F1 provides added impact for decorative projects, market displays, and educational activities.

Thanks to its mildew tolerance, the foliage stays healthy longer and the stems stay firm, meaning the pumpkins are less likely to deform and have a longer shelf life. This makes Racer Plus F1 PMT ideal for:

• Halloween lanterns and creative decorations

• Autumn arrangements

• Market sales and seasonal presentations

• Workshops and children's activities

The combination of size, shape and robustness makes this pumpkin a favorite both visually and functionally.

Growth and cultivation characteristics

Racer Plus F1 PMT grows compactly, with moderately trailing plants that remain manageable and easy to manage. This makes the variety suitable for gardeners with limited space or who want to maintain an organized growing environment.

With a maturation period of approximately 85 days, Racer Plus F1 PMT is a mid-early variety. This allows harvesting during the peak fall decoration season, ensuring the reliable and timely availability of uniform pumpkins.

Growing instructions for optimal growth

Sowing

• Pre-sowing: from the end of April indoors or in a heated greenhouse.

• Sow directly outdoors: from early May in well-drained, warm soil.

• Optimal germination temperature: 24–30 °C for rapid and reliable emergence.

• Insert seeds with the pointed side down or lay them flat.

• Keep the soil slightly moist, but never wet, to prevent mold and rot.

After germination, the young plants should be placed in a brighter, cooler location to encourage strong, compact growth.

Planting out and location

Cucurbita pepo thrives in a warm, sunny spot with well-drained, fertile soil. For Racer Plus F1 PMT, we recommend a planting distance of approximately 2 m² per plant, allowing sufficient space for leaf development, fruit set, and air circulation.

Decorative applications and ornamental value

Racer Plus F1 PMT is especially suitable for decorative purposes. The combination of large, round fruits, uniform ribs, and dark orange color makes this pumpkin perfect for:

• Halloween decorations and jack-o'-lanterns

• Autumn arrangements and table decorations

• Market stalls and seasonal sales

• Educational projects and workshops

Although less suitable for consumption, this variety offers maximum visual impact and long-lasting shelf life, making it a favorite choice for ornamental purposes.

Conclusion

Cucurbita pepo Racer Plus F1 PMT is an advanced alternative to the classic Racer F1, with powdery mildew tolerance, larger fruits (6.5–8 kg), and compact growth. This variety combines ornamental value, durability, and reliable yield, making it perfect for Halloween, fall decorations, and commercial cultivation. Racer Plus F1 PMT offers gardeners the assurance of beautiful, firm pumpkins that remain attractive throughout the fall.