Organic 'Dill's Atlantic Giant' Pumpkin
Organic 'Dill's Atlantic Giant' pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) from the seed company Gaia, the legendary heritage variety of giant competition pumpkins
The 'Dill's Atlantic Giant' pumpkin develops extremely vigorous vines , capable of extending up to 15 meters , supported by broad, dark green foliage that fosters spectacular growth. The fruits are massive, round, and slightly ribbed , turning from pale orange to deep orange when ripe. Under optimal conditions, they can exceed 450 kg , with a world record of 1,190 kg , making this variety the absolute benchmark in giant pumpkin competitions.
Selected in eastern Canada by Howard Dill , this heirloom variety is recognized worldwide for its exceptional size potential . It requires ample space, full sun , deep and very fertile soil , and careful plant management. The flowers are edible , and although the flesh is secondary to its competitive aspect, this pumpkin remains an iconic symbol of outdoor vegetable cultivation.
Companion plants: Corn, Climbing beans, Radishes, Tomatoes, Marigolds, Nasturtiums, Oregano, Calendula
Negative plants: Tomato, Eggplant, Potato, Pepper
Spread/Carrying habit: Creeping, extremely vigorous
Plant height: 40 to 60 cm
Quantity per packet: 5 seeds
Certification: Environmentally friendly product
Special features: Heritage variety for competition, record-breaking giant fruit, vine up to 15m tall, demanding in terms of space and fertility, edible flowers
Leaf color: Dark green
Texture/Use: Firm flesh, primarily decorative and for display
Cold tolerance: Sensitive to frost
Farming method
Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for up to 24 hours and lightly scarify them to improve germination. Start sowing indoors 3 to 4 weeks before the last frost , or sow directly outdoors in late May or early June , when the soil temperature reaches 25°C (77°F ). For outdoor cultivation, sow 2 to 3 seeds per hill , spaced 4.5 to 6 meters (15 to 20 feet) apart, then thin to one plant when the seedlings reach 7 to 10 cm ( 3 to 4 inches) tall.
Pumpkins prefer full sun (level 3) and consistent watering (level 3) . After the first fruit forms, remove any excess flowers and fruit to concentrate energy on a single plant.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit has a rich color , the skin is too soft to cut with a fingernail , and the spot on the ground changes from creamy yellow to orange . Cut the pumpkin, leaving about 5 cm of stem to prevent rot. Let it ripen in a warm, dry place, then store at 10-12°C , with 55-75% humidity and good air circulation.
Usage ideas
• Giant pumpkin competitions and exhibitions
• Spectacular horticultural projects
• Monumental autumn decorations
• Pedagogical and demonstrative culture
• Using flowers in cooking
The 'Dill's Atlantic Giant' pumpkin embodies horticultural extravagance , Canadian heritage , and a passion for show growing . A legendary variety for ambitious gardeners, where patience, space, and care are rewarded with the extraordinary.
