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Step 1
Choose a site with plenty of full sun all day long. Pumpkins need bright light and do best if not shaded by trees or houses.
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Step 2
Test the pH of your soil to see if it needs to be amended. The pH needs to be between 6.0 and 6.8. The pH scales runs from 0 to 14 with soils under 7.0 considered acidic and soils over 7.0 considered alkaline. You can get a pH test kit at most garden centers.
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Step 3
Amend the pH of your soil if it does not fall within the 6.0 and 6.8 range. If the soil measures under 6.0, mix lime into the soil following the directions on the package. If the soil measures over 6.8, mix in peat moss, wood chips or sawdust. Then, test the soil again to see if your soil is now within range.
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Step 4
Till soil and add in lots of organic nutrients such as compost and manure. Pumpkins need a high amount of nutrients, so be generous in your applications. You may need to add a little more compost and manure in subsequent years.
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Step 5
Mound your soil to create hills where your seeds will be planted in your pumpkin patch. Raise the dirt about 3 inches tall and 6 inches wide. Hills allow for better drainage and increased warmth, which is crucial to pumpkin seed germination.
