Cucurbita pepo Tondo Padana – robust and decorative edible pumpkin

Cucurbita pepo Tondo Padana is a versatile and decorative edible pumpkin that excels in both the kitchen and the garden. This variety produces ribbed, brownish pumpkins with green stripes that are robust and firm. The fruits weigh 2.5–5 kg (5.5–11 lb), making them ideal for individual portions and culinary uses. Tondo Padana combines ornamental value with edibility, making it a popular variety for both amateur gardeners and professional growers.

Characteristics of Tondo Padana pumpkin

Tondo Padana stands out for its unique appearance and practical features:

• Ribbed fruits with a brownish base and green stripes

• Robust structure, ideal for transport and long-term storage

• Decorative appearance, suitable for autumn presentations

• Weighing 2.5–5 kg, perfect for cooking and serving

This combination of decorative and edible qualities makes Tondo Padana attractive for both sales and for home cooks who appreciate aesthetic presentation.

Culinary applications

The flesh of the Tondo Padana is firm and flavorful, making the pumpkin suitable for various dishes, such as:

• roasting or baking in the oven

• stuffed pumpkins

• pumpkin soups and stews

• puree and side dishes

Thanks to their firm skin and consistent weight, the fruits are easy to handle and prepare, making Tondo Padana a versatile choice for the kitchen.

Lushly climbing plants – optimal growth

Tondo Padana has a vigorous vine habit, meaning the plants develop extensively and require sufficient space for healthy growth and optimal fruit development. Lush vines promote:

• good air circulation around the leaves

• strong and robust stems

• maximum fruit development and uniform fruits

For successful cultivation it is important to reserve sufficient space depending on the tendril behaviour of the plants.

Maturation period of 100 days – reliable harvest

With a ripening period of approximately 100 days, Tondo Padana is a mid-season variety of Cucurbita pepo. The fruits develop evenly and retain their firmness, color, and flavor for a long time. This makes the variety suitable for autumn harvest, storage, and seasonal display.

Cultivation advice for optimal yield

Cucurbita pepo Tondo Padana 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.

Decorative and culinary value

Tondo Padana is not only an edible pumpkin, but also very suitable for decorative purposes. The striking ribs, brown-green colors, and robust shape make this variety attractive for:

• autumn and Halloween decorations

• table decorations and flower arrangements

• markets and sales in garden centers

The combination of taste, robustness and aesthetic value makes Tondo Padana a versatile choice for both hobby and professional cultivation.