How Far Apart Do You Plant Pumpkins?

Pumpkins need space to sprawl, and proper spacing is the key to healthy vines and full-sized fruit. On average, sow seeds 1–1.5 metres apart in rows 1.5–2.5 metres wide. Compact bush varieties can be spaced closer, while giant vining pumpkins need more room. Correct spacing prevents overcrowding, reduces disease risk, and gives each plant the root zone it needs to produce large, sweet fruit.

At a Glance: Pumpkin Seed Spacing

Bush varieties: 60–90 cm between plants; rows 1.2–1.5 m apart
Standard vining types: 1–1.5 m between plants; rows 1.5–2.5 m apart
Large/giant pumpkins: 2 m between plants; rows 2.5–3 m apart
Containers: One plant per 50–70 L pot; allow vines to trail outward
Sowing depth: 2–3 cm deep; plant 2–3 seeds per hill and thin to the strongest

Quick Tip: Always thin seedlings to one strong plant per spot; overcrowding = lush vines but poor fruit.

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Why Proper Spacing Is Important

Pumpkins are heavy feeders with wide root systems. If planted too close, they compete for water and nutrients, leading to smaller fruit and higher risk of powdery mildew. Good airflow also prevents fungal disease and helps bees move between flowers for pollination.

Spacing by Climate Zone (Australia)

Cool/Temperate (VIC, TAS): Use wider rows (2–2.5 m) to maximise sun exposure in shorter summers.
Warm/Subtropical (NSW, SA): Standard spacing (1–1.5 m apart, rows 2 m wide) works well.
Tropical (QLD, NT, north WA): Allow extra space (up to 2 m between plants) to reduce humidity build-up and fungal pressure.

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Tips for Planting Pumpkins

Prepare soil with mature compost before planting; avoid fresh manure at sowing.
Plant 2–3 seeds per spot, thin to the strongest once established.
Mulch heavily around plants to suppress weeds and retain moisture.
Train vines outward into free space rather than letting them tangle.

Best Fertiliser for Strong Vines & Fruit

Start feeding once true leaves appear with CompleteGrow All Purpose NPK 20-20-20 at 3–4 ml/L every 7–10 days. Balanced feeding ensures vines establish well, flowers set reliably, and fruit bulks evenly without excess foliage.

FAQs

How many pumpkin seeds per hole? Sow 2–3 seeds, thin to the strongest plant.
How far apart do I plant giant pumpkins? At least 2 m apart, rows 2.5–3 m wide.
Can pumpkins be grown closer in pots? Yes — one per large container, with vines trained outward.
What happens if I plant too close? Overcrowding leads to fewer fruit, smaller pumpkins, and higher disease risk.