Here we are. Fall is upon us. Not only are the UT banners flying high; the last splash of color from the garden is ripe for picking. What might that be? A pumpkin of course. In other words, a Cucurbita of the Cucurbitaceae family. Green, yellow, white, or orange. Round, tall, stackable, or bumpy. They come in many shapes and sizes. Currently, 45 varieties to be exact.

Pumpkins are native to America. According to the University of California facts and findings, there are 10 things you probably don’t know about pumpkins. (Oliveira, Davis, 2018 )

Listen to some of important insights:

The word ‘pumpkin” means large melon in Greek.

Pumpkins date back 9,000 years as one of the oldest plants in vegetation. History tells us pumpkins were a vital crop in Native American farming. Blending pumpkins, corn, beans to maintain a root base and support along river edges. Even today, it is still a staple on many Thanksgiving tables.

Top to bottom and stem to seeds; it is all edible. Some parts may be tastier than others.

Today, pumpkins are best known for their carvings. This is not a new practice either. Irish immigrants are noted for this practice which they initiated on turnips and potatoes.

Since National Pumpkin Day is celebrated every year on October 26, it is fitting that pies, carvings and decorations stem from this popular native fruit. This fall see the pumpkin as more than a fall decor. The pumpkin was a lifesaving crop and has served us well with its deep-rooted heritage. If you want to know more information, pursue your own Archaeobotanical studies among pumpkins and squashes.

Think abouts:

• Pumpkins are __________% water? Choices 85%, 92%, 76%
• Every year the United States produces 1.5 billion pounds of pumpkin. True or False.
• Is the pumpkin a fruit, squash, melon or cucumber?

Sources:

Oloveira and Davis, “10 Things You Probably Did Not Know About Pumpkins”, UniversityofCalifornia.edu, 18 October 2018.

Answers:

92%, True, Actually all, it’s a winter squash

Vonda Jennings, RN, BSN FLOM Volunteer