INTRODUCTION
Cucurbita maxima (pumpkin) is believed to have originated in South America, while the other species
became differentiated in the southern U.S.A, Mexico and Central America. Pumpkins are now grown all
over the world with the exception of Antarctica.
Pumpkin belongs to the Cucurbitacae family, which includes cucumber, melon and squash. Within this
family is the genus Cucurbita which includes all varieties of pumpkin. Pumpkin plants are hardy creepers or soil surface runners, but able to climb where there are supports. The fruits vary in shape, colour and sizes. They are monoecious and can be bred from pure lines. Pumpkins are cultivated for their ripe fruit with the seeds in the central cavity and the yellow or orange flesh being eaten. Pumpkin contains an important antioxidant, beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body. In the conversion to vitamin A, beta-carotene performs many important functions in overhall health. Research suggests that pumpkin seeds have unique nutritional and health benefits.
Pumpkin Cultivation and Post Harvest Handling
