From Seed to Fruit
![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/TFK_200911_010_flat_preview.jpg?w=1024)
A pumpkin is a type of squash. It can take four months for this fall fruit to grow. Take a look!
1. Plant the Seed
![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/TFK_200911_011_preview.jpg?w=1024)
A giant pumpkin begins as a tiny seed. The seed goes into the soil
soil
DORLING KINDERSLEY:ROB STREETER—GETTY IMAGES
the top layer of earth where plants grow
(noun)
The cactus grows well in dry soil.
.
2. See It Sprout
sprout
HALFPOINT IMAGES/GETTY IMAGES
to begin to grow
(verb)
The flowers in my mom's garden sprout each spring.
![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/TFK_200911_008_preview.jpg?w=1024)
Seeds need lots of sunlight and water to grow. A seed sprouts from the soil.
3. Ready to Bloom
![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/TFK_200911_009_preview.jpg?w=681)
The sprouts grow vines. The vines have green leaves and yellow flowers.
4. Growing Green
![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/TFK_200911_004_preview.jpg?w=1024)
Small green pumpkins grow from the vines. The fruits stay green for a month or more. The pumpkins are not yet ripe
ripe
SUBJUG—GETTY IMAGES
fully grown and ready to be eaten
(adjective)
Bananas are ripe when they are soft and yellow.
.
5. Orange Pumpkins
![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/TFK_200911_001_preview.jpg?w=684)
The green pumpkins keep growing. They take in water and sunlight. The fruits turn orange. Now they are ready to pick!
How Big?
![](https://www.timeforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/GettyImages-618544988.jpg?w=699)
The Baby Boo is a tiny pumpkin. It can fit in your hand. The Big Moon is a gigantic pumpkin. Some can weigh 200 pounds!