Cucurbita pepo Tom Fox – classic round Halloween pumpkin

Cucurbita pepo Tom Fox is a traditional Halloween pumpkin and a standard size in pumpkin cultivation. This variety produces round, slightly ribbed fruits with attractive stems, good proportions, and an attractive color. With an average weight of 5–8 kg, Tom Fox is ideal for ornamental use and for direct sowing in the garden.

Characteristics of Tom Fox pumpkin

Tom Fox is known for its classic look and robust features:

• Round, slightly ribbed shape, typical for Halloween pumpkins

• Beautiful, sturdy stems that give a decorative appearance

• Good size-to-shape ratio, suitable for presentation and sales

• Weighing 5–8 kg, ideal for table decoration or pumpkin carving

This combination of properties makes Tom Fox a popular choice for hobby gardeners, schools and markets.

Decorative applications

Although Tom Fox is less suitable for culinary purposes, the pumpkin is very popular for decorative purposes, such as:

• Halloween and fall decorations

• table decorations and flower arrangements

• creative workshops and events

• sales in garden centers and at markets

The classic shape and attractive ribbing make Tom Fox a real eye-catcher, which can also be stored well for seasonal presentations.

Moderately climbing plants – suitable for compact cultivation

Tom Fox is moderately vining, which keeps the plants more compact and easier to maintain than vigorously vining varieties. This makes the variety suitable for:

• smaller vegetable gardens

• direct sowing in the field

• hobby and school gardens

The moderate tendrils contribute to orderly growth and efficient use of the available space.

Maturation time of 105 days – reliable harvest

With a ripening time of approximately 105 days, Tom Fox is a mid-late variety of Cucurbita pepo. The fruits develop evenly and retain their firmness and color for a long time. This makes the variety ideal for autumn harvesting, decoration, and long-lasting display.

Cultivation advice for optimal yield

Cucurbita pepo Tom Fox grows best in warm, well-drained soil. For successful cultivation, 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 brighter, cooler location to promote healthy, strong growth.

Planting distance and space requirements

A space requirement of 1–2 m² per plant is recommended for Tom Fox, in keeping with its moderate climbing habit. This spacing provides sufficient space for healthy leaves, good air circulation, and optimal fruit development, while still maintaining a manageable cultivation environment.