Cucurbita pepo Zeus F1 PMT – strong, decorative cutting pumpkin

Cucurbita pepo Zeus F1 PMT is a medium-sized, high-quality slicing pumpkin, distinguished by its round, ribbed fruits, bright orange color, and impressive dark green stem. This variety combines ornamental beauty with robust cultivation characteristics, making it perfect for autumn gardens, Halloween decorations, and short-term culinary uses.

Features of Zeus F1 PMT

Zeus F1 PMT stands out for its harmonious appearance and strong properties:

• Round to slightly rounded fruits, weighing about 7–9 kg each

• Bright orange peel and nicely ribbed surface

• Beautiful dark green stem, which enhances the aesthetic value of the fruits

• Short, strong tendrils, ideal for compact cultivation

• An average of 2 fruits per plant, resulting in a controlled, high-quality harvest

• Resistant to powdery mildew (PMT) and Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV), which promotes healthy growth

With its beautiful, uniform fruits, Zeus F1 PMT is a real eye-catcher in the garden and on the harvest table.

Decorative applications

Zeus F1 PMT is ideally suited for:

• Halloween and autumn decoration, because of the classic orange color and sturdy stem

• Table decorations and flower arrangements that give the garden or living room a natural autumn look

• Educational projects and pumpkin exhibitions, thanks to the uniform weight and attractive shape

Although the pumpkin is primarily decorative, it can be used to a limited extent in the kitchen, for example for soup or baked dishes, but this variety is less suitable for extensive culinary use.

Cultivation and growth characteristics

Zeus F1 PMT grows well in warm, well-drained soil. It can be grown in two ways:

• Pre-cultivation from the end of April, with planting out after the last night frost

• Sow directly from early May, as soon as the soil has warmed up sufficiently.

Optimal germination occurs at 24–30°C. Seeds should be placed pointed-side down or flat and kept slightly moist. After germination, the young plants should be placed in a brighter, cooler location to develop strong, healthy plants.

Planting distance and space requirements

Thanks to its short vines, Zeus F1 PMT has a compact growth habit, ideal for gardens with limited space. We recommend 1–2 m² per plant, so the fruits have enough room to fully develop and the plants can receive adequate ventilation. This also helps prevent fungal and disease problems.

Ripening time and harvest

With a ripening time of approximately 110 days, Zeus F1 PMT offers a mid-late harvest, ideal for decorating around Halloween and in the fall. The firm fruits retain their shape, color, and dark green stems for a long time, making them a good choice for decorative purposes.