Cucurbita pepo White Crookneck – unique white-cream Crookneck mixture

Cucurbita pepo White Crookneck is an exclusive and decorative Crookneck mixture, resulting from selective breeding. This variety is a cross and selection of a sport of Yellow Crookneck, resulting in twisted, curved fruits in white and cream, which appear in abundance on the bushy plants. White Crookneck is a wonderful choice for garden enthusiasts and ornamental use, as the plants remain compact and bushy, making them well-suited for smaller gardens or raised beds.

Characteristics of White Crookneck

White Crookneck is distinguished by its ornamental value and compact growth:

• Mixture of white and cream-colored Crooknecks, unique in shape and color

• Twisted, curved fruits, abundant on the plants

• Bushy, compact plants, ideal for smaller gardens and pots

• Maturation time approximately 80 days, early ripening and reliable

• Of limited suitability for consumption, mainly decorative

The combination of colour, shape and compact growth makes White Crookneck suitable for hobby gardens, market and autumn decoration.

Decorative uses – versatile Crookneck

This variety is particularly attractive for decorative and creative purposes:

• Table decorations and flower arrangements, thanks to the special white and cream tones

• Autumn and seasonal arrangements, for indoor and outdoor decoration

• Arts and crafts projects, such as painted or personalized pumpkins

• Limited-edition gardens, where the exclusive blend attracts extra attention

The striking curved fruits add visual dynamism to any decorative project, making White Crookneck a unique addition to the ornamental pumpkin range.

Compact, bushy growth – easy to manage

White Crookneck grows in a bushy and compact form, which makes cultivation manageable and easy to maintain:

• Easy to harvest, because the fruits remain close to the plant

• Good air circulation, which limits diseases

• Suitable for limited space, such as pots, raised beds or small gardens

The compact growth pattern ensures uniform fruits and a consistent harvest, ideal for hobby gardeners and decoration professionals.

Maturation period of approximately 80 days – early and reliable

With a ripening period of approximately 80 days, White Crookneck is one of the earlier varieties of Cucurbita pepo. The fruits develop evenly and retain their color and firmness, making them perfect for harvesting in late summer or early autumn.

Cultivation advice for optimal yield

White Crookneck 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, young plants should be placed in a brighter, cooler location to encourage healthy growth.

Planting distance and space requirements

A space of approximately 1–2 m² per plant is recommended for White Crookneck. This provides sufficient space for its bushy, compact growth, optimal fruit development, and good air circulation, while enabling efficient use of the available space.