Casper Pumpkins - White Skin with Orange Flesh
Pumpkin - Casper - Cucurbita pepo
Tender Annual White-skinned ornamental pumpkin with thick orange flesh of excellent eating quality. Casper's skin has less bluing than many other white varieties. Handle is tan with a corky texture. 8"-12" diameter, 10-20 pounds, use like squash or for pies.
Did You Know? Pumpkins are native to Central America but are now cultivated on six of seven continents, Antarctica being the only exception. The Casper Pumpkin, scientifically known as Cucurbita pepo, is a distinctive pumpkin variety known for its pure white coloration and smooth skin. Although its precise origin remains uncertain, Casper Pumpkins belong to the broader category of field or pie pumpkins, which are commonly grown in North America for culinary and decorative purposes. The name "Casper" likely alludes to the famous friendly ghost, owing to the pumpkin's ghostly white appearance. These pumpkins have gained popularity among gardeners and enthusiasts for their ornamental value and sweet, tender flesh.
Soil & Water: Pumpkins prefer loam or sandy soil high in organic matter to hold large amounts of moisture. The plants require heavy and even water for best development. Preferred soil pH is between 6.0-7.0.
Planting & Growing: Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost or sow seed directly when soil temperature reaches 70°F. To begin growing earlier, use mulching plastics and row covers to warm the soil. Place a board underneath the fruit to help prevent rotting.
Harvesting & Storage: For immediate use, harvest when the skin loses its sheen. For storage, harvest pumpkins when fully mature. Cut the fruit from the vine, leaving 4"-6" of stem. Cure for storage by setting in a warm, dry location for 1-2 weeks.
Taste of Casper Pumpkins: Casper Pumpkins are celebrated not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their delightful taste. The flesh of Casper Pumpkins is sweet, mild, and tender, making them a versatile choice for various culinary applications. When cooked, the pumpkin's flesh becomes smooth and velvety, ideal for crafting delicious pies, soups, casseroles, and desserts. Their naturally sweet flavor adds a pleasant and subtle sweetness to dishes, making them a favored ingredient in the kitchen. Additionally, Casper Pumpkin seeds, when roasted, offer a wholesome and nutritious snack with a satisfying crunch.