Cucurbita pepo Terafin F1 – excellent small lantern pumpkin

Cucurbita pepo Terafin F1 is a high-quality F1 hybrid pumpkin known for its excellent quality and yield. This variety produces round, lantern-shaped pumpkins weighing 3–4 kg, which grow abundantly on the plants and are ideal for both ornamental and culinary use. Terafin F1 was awarded the prestigious AAS (All-America Selections) award in 2011 under its original name Hijinks F1, underscoring the quality and popularity of this variety.

Round, robust lantern pumpkins

Terafin F1 fruits are medium-sized, round, and firm, with a uniform weight of about 3–4 kg. The compact and well-formed lantern gourds are:

• Robust and durable, ideal for transport and storage

• Uniform in size, which is attractive for sales and presentation

• Aesthetically appealing, with a classic lantern pumpkin shape

Thanks to these properties, the fruits are suitable for both decoration and preparation in the kitchen.

Medium-growing and mildew-tolerant plants

Terafin F1 has medium-sized vines, making the plants easy to manage and allowing them to spread efficiently across the available area. Furthermore, this variety is tolerant to powdery mildew, making cultivation more reliable and easier, even under changing weather conditions. The strong health of the plants contributes to:

• a high yield per plant

• long-term fruit development

• less chance of disease problems

This makes Terafin F1 particularly suitable for both hobby gardeners and professional growers.

Maturation time of 90 days – early and efficient

With a ripening time of approximately 90 days, Terafin F1 is an early-maturing lantern pumpkin. The fruits develop evenly and retain their firmness and color, making them ideal for harvesting and displaying throughout the autumn season. This early maturity also makes the variety suitable for multiple crops per season.

Cultivation advice for optimal yield

Terafin F1 grows best in warm, well-drained, and fertile soil. The seeds can be planted in two ways:

• Sow from the end of April, plant out after the last frost

• Sow directly from early May, as soon as the soil temperature is sufficient

For optimal germination, a temperature of 24–30°C is ideal. The seeds should be placed pointed-side down or flat and kept slightly moist, but not wet. After germination, the young plants should be placed in a bright, cooler location to promote strong, healthy growth.

Planting distance and space requirements

Terafin F1 has medium-sized tendrils, but due to its abundant fruit set, a wide planting distance is recommended. For optimal cultivation, we recommend 2–3 m² per plant. This provides sufficient space for healthy leaves, good air circulation, and maximum fruit development.

Decorative and culinary applications

Terafin F1 is a versatile variety that can be used for both ornamental and edible purposes. Thanks to its classic lantern shape and robust structure, the fruits are suitable for:

• autumn and Halloween decorations

• table decorations and arrangements

• culinary preparation such as filling, roasting or soups

• sales at markets and garden centers

The combination of ornamental value, edibility, and ease of cultivation makes Terafin F1 one of the most sought-after lantern pumpkins for hobby and professional cultivation.