After 1-2 weeks, sprouts begin to break through the earth and unfold. Within the following 2 weeks, small growths are noticed, and farmers must choose which plants to to pull. Because pumpkins require an ample space for proper growth, the strongest and largest of the plants is kept and the rest are discarded. Pumpkins need rich soil for adequate growth to occur. Compost and aged manure are often used to nurse the plants along.
Pumpkins also require large amounts of water.
Because they are made up of as much as 90-percent water, it's essential that farmers water this plant on a regular basis. Within the first month of life, two flowers appear on each vine. One is male and one, female. Bees play matchmaker with the flowers, doing all the work of pollinating during early growth. Those plants which are pollinated grow strong, while those that aren't, usually shrivel and die within the first two months of growth.