Named Rouge Vif d'Etampes, this French heirloom, popular in 1880s Parisian markets, combines ornamental beauty with excellent sweet flavor. These 20 lb pumpkins, also known as Cinderella pumpkins or fairytale pumpkins, feature a bright orange hue and are grown on bushy vines. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also make great keepers, adding both aesthetics and taste to your harvest. With their sweet flavor and unique shape, they are often referred to as cheese pumpkins, perfect for a variety of dishes. As a variety of Cucurbita maxima, these pumpkins thrive in warm seasons and provide an exceptional yield..

Sustainably grown in 2.75" pots

Preparing the Soil

Cinderella pumpkins thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Before planting, prepare the soil by amending it with organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve its texture and fertility. Remove any weeds and debris from the planting area to create a clean and healthy growing environment for your Cinderella pumpkins.

Planting Cinderella Pumpkins

Cinderella pumpkins are warm-season crops that require plenty of sunlight to thrive. Plant starts in late spring or early summer, once the soil has warmed up to at least 70°F (21°C) and after the frost date has passed. Space plants 2 to 3 feet apart in rows spaced 4 to 6 feet apart to allow for adequate air circulation and room for vine growth.

Watering and Care

Cinderella pumpkins require consistent moisture throughout the growing season, especially during hot, dry weather. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, providing enough water to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering, as wet foliage can promote fungal diseases. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing

Cinderella pumpkins are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost tea every 3 to 4 weeks to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth and fruit development. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and timing.

Training and Support

Cinderella pumpkins are vining plants that benefit from support and training to keep the fruit off the ground and prevent rotting. Consider using trellises, cages, or stakes to support the vines and encourage upward growth. Prune the vines as needed to remove any dead or diseased foliage and promote air circulation around the plants.

Pest and Disease Management

Cinderella pumpkins are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, cucumber beetles, powdery mildew, and bacterial wilt. Monitor your plants regularly for signs of pest infestations or disease symptoms and take appropriate action to control them. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat aphids and cucumber beetles, and apply fungicides to prevent powdery mildew.

Harvesting Cinderella Pumpkins

Cinderella pumpkins are ready to harvest when they develop a deep orange color and a hard, woody stem. The skin should resist puncture when pressed with your fingernail, indicating that the pumpkin is fully mature. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the pumpkin from the vine, leaving a few inches of stem attached. Cinderella pumpkins can be stored in a cool, dry place for several months.

Growing Cinderella pumpkins can be a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy unique and flavorful pumpkins right from your garden. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this guide, you can successfully cultivate Cinderella pumpkins and enjoy a bountiful harvest of beautiful and delicious fruits all season long.

Flavor and Cooking Recipes

Cinderella pumpkins, also known as Rouge Vif d'Etampes or fairytale pumpkins, offer a sweet flavor and creamy texture that makes them perfect for a variety of fall recipes. Their vivid red, bright orange skin and tender flesh are ideal for pies, soups, roasted dishes, and baked goods like cakes. Whether you're baking, roasting, or making puree, these cheese pumpkins and winter squash provide a mild, rich taste and are excellent for enhancing autumn meals, from hearty soups to delicious pumpkin pies, all while adding a touch of decorative charm to your garden.

Why Choose Cinderella Pumpkins for Your Garden

Cinderella pumpkins, also known as Rouge Vif d'Etampes or fairytale pumpkins, are the perfect addition to your garden for both their decorative appeal and excellent flavor. With their vivid red, perfectly round shape and sweet, creamy texture, they are ideal for fall harvests, making delicious pies, soups, and baked goods. These pumpkins thrive in full sun and well-prepared soil, offering a rich, mild flavor that enhances everything from autumn meals to Halloween décor, while supporting beneficial insects in your garden.

Why Buy Cinderella Pumpkin From Us?

When you buy Cinderella pumpkins from us, you’re getting high-quality, organically grown seeds for this unique and flavorful variety. Our Cinderella pumpkins, also known as Rouge Vif d'Etampes and cheese pumpkins, are prized for their vivid red skin, sweet flavor, and creamy texture, making them perfect for pies, soups, baked goods, and more. These pumpkins thrive in full sun and fertile soil, and their attractive, perfectly round shape adds beauty to your garden and fall harvest. With a focus on sustainability and flavor, our pumpkins provide excellent nutrients, making them the perfect addition to your garden and kitchen this season.