Gold Medal
Cucurbita maxima — semi-competitive giant — 45–90 kg
Gold Medal is a rich orange, rounder-shaped giant that sits neatly between large show pumpkins and full competition genetics like Dill's Atlantic Giant. It's a popular choice for growers ready to move beyond a Big Max or Big Moon and try genuine giant-scale growing, without yet committing to the most intensive competitive feeding regimes.
🌱 How to Grow Gold Medal
8+ hours of direct sun. As a genuine giant, Gold Medal needs maximum light to fuel its faster growth rate compared to smaller show varieties.
Transplant once soil reaches 18–20°C. Warmer starts speed up early establishment ahead of the main growth phase.
Deep watering 3+ times weekly, increasing to near-daily once fruit sets and enters its rapid-growth window.
Allow 15–25 m² per plant. A genuine giant footprint, though somewhat smaller than full Atlantic Giant requirements.
Heavier feeding than show varieties — nitrogen-focused early, shifting to phosphorus and potassium once fruit sets, on a weekly schedule through peak growth.
Choose the best-set fruit by day 15–20 post-pollination and remove competitors, same as with full giant varieties, to maximise final weight.
🩺 Common Problems
Cause: Calcium deficiency triggered by inconsistent watering
Fix: Water on a consistent schedule and apply a calcium supplement as a precaution during rapid fruit growth
Cause: Squash vine borer larvae tunnelling into the main stem
Fix: Bury vine nodes for backup roots and inspect the main stem base weekly for entry holes
Cause: Dense canopy and humidity later in the season
Fix: Thin excess leaves for airflow and treat early with a sulphur-based spray
Cause: Uneven watering during peak expansion
Fix: Keep soil moisture consistent all season and ease off slightly in the final weeks before harvest
❓ Common Questions
How big does Gold Medal get?
Typically 45–90 kg, sitting between large show pumpkins and true competition giants.
How is it different from Dill's Atlantic Giant?
Gold Medal has a rounder shape and slightly shorter season, making it more manageable while still offering genuine giant scale.
How long does it take to mature?
110–125 days from seed to harvest, a step down from full Atlantic Giant genetics.
Is it good for moving up to giant pumpkins?
Yes — often recommended as a middle step before committing to full competition genetics.
