PUMPKIN: The name pumpkin originated from the Greek word for “large melon” which is “pepon.” Pumpkins are grown all around the world for a variety of reasons ranging from agricultural purposes to commercial and ornamental sales. Pumpkins are very versatile in their uses for cooking, from the fleshy shell, to the seeds, to even the flowers; most parts of the pumpkin are edible. Traditionally, pumpkin is a very popular Halloween and Thanksgiving staple.Some people call Green Striped Cushaw a pumpkin, others call it a squash. But whatever you call this heirloom plant, it should be grown in your garden. Cushaw pumpkin/squash are believed to have had their origins in Central America. Multiple varieties have been catalogued with cultural origins from Nicaragua through New Mexico and into the Caribbean basin. Striped Cushaw is believed to have been introduced from the Caribbean basin into North America in the second half of the nineteenth century. Green Cushaw may be eaten as summer squash when small or allowed to mature for winter squash. The mature fruit should keep for 3-5 months in cool (above freezing) storage. It is also used for Halloween decorations.