Once the Russians reached the islands in the 18th century they found a pseudo-etymology from Russian kurit (ÐºÑÑÐ¸ÑÑ - to smoke) due to the continual fumes and steam above the islands from volcanoes.
An early, indoor start - Giant pumpkin plants require 140 days or more from the time you plant a seed, to the time you harvest the fruit. Growers seeking to break the world record, start seeds in mid to late April, and harvest fruit in early October. That means as many as 160 days, from when the seed was planted!
Giant pumpkins leaves are.....BIG!! The leaves often surpasses 20 by 20 inches. Leaves of this size on thin stems are susceptible to wind damage, especially if the plant is in an open field, or on a hill. In an afternoon thunderstorm, leaves can be damaged or break, reducing the food production to the fruit.