Cucurbita pepo Spookie – robust and productive pumpkin for pie and soup

Cucurbita pepo Spookie is a reliable and versatile pumpkin variety that is always a success in cultivation. This F1 hybrid variety is distinguished by its robust growth, high productivity, and compact, moderately trailing habit. With an average weight of 1.5–2 kilograms and consistent yield, Spookie is ideal for both hobby growers and professional producers looking for a high-quality pumpkin for the kitchen.

Compact, moderately climbing plant

Spookie is a moderately vining variety, meaning it takes up less space than vigorously vining pumpkins and is easy to grow in limited spaces. Its compact growth pattern makes it suitable for:

• vegetable gardens

• allotments

• intensive cultivation in beds or rows

• professional cultivation on limited plots

Despite its moderate vine growth, Spookie produces a reliable and uniform yield, making the plant economically attractive for both small and large growers.

Robust, uniform fruits

Spookie fruits vary slightly in size, but average 1.5–2 kilograms (3.3–4.4 lbs), making them ideal for individual portions or smaller culinary preparations. They are firm and robust, with a tough skin that ensures good shelf life and transportability. This makes Spookie suitable for both market sales and home cooking.

Suitable for consumption – ideal for cakes and soups

Spookie is known for its flavorful flesh, which is perfect for various culinary uses. Its soft texture and natural sweetness make this variety ideal for:

• pumpkin pie

• pumpkin soup

• casseroles

• purée

• gratins

The combination of productive plants and flavorful fruits makes Spookie a versatile choice for home cooks and professional chefs looking for a reliable pumpkin for recipes.

Maturation time of 85 days – fast and reliable

With a ripening time of approximately 85 days, Spookie is one of the early-ripening pumpkin varieties. This allows for quick harvesting and allows for multiple crops per season in areas with shorter growing seasons. The predictable ripening process ensures uniform fruit and efficient harvest planning.

Cultivation advice for optimal growth

Cucurbita pepo Spookie grows best in warm, well-drained, and fertile soil. Two sowing methods are possible:

• Sow from the end of April, after which the young plants can be planted out after the last night frost.

• Sow directly from early May, as soon as the soil is sufficiently warm.

For optimal germination, a temperature of 24–30°C is ideal. The seeds are best:

• placed with the pointed side down

• or laid flat on slightly moist, airy soil

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

Planting distance depends on tendril behaviour

Because Spookie is a moderate climber, the optimal planting distance varies depending on the available space and desired yield. In practice, a planting area of ​​1–1.5 m² per plant is often maintained to ensure sufficient air circulation, healthy leaves, and optimal fruit development.